MLB Game Preview: Los Angeles Angels (22-25) vs. Athletics (22-27)

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Game Details

  • Matchup: Los Angeles Angels (22-25) vs. Athletics (22-27)
  • Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
  • Time: 10:05 PM ET
  • Venue: Oakland Coliseum, Oakland, CA
  • TV Broadcast: NBC Sports California, Bally Sports West

Team Overview & Recent Performance

Los Angeles Angels

The Angels are riding a five-game winning streak, including victories in the first two games of this series (4-3 and 7-5). Their offense has been clicking, ranking third in MLB with 69 home runs. Taylor Ward has been a standout performer, going 12-for-40 with four doubles and five home runs over his last 10 games.

Despite their recent success, the Angels have struggled on the road, holding a 13-15 away record. Injuries have also been a concern, with Mike Trout (knee) and Anthony Rendon (hip) on the injured list.

Athletics

The Athletics are in a seven-game losing streak, sitting at the bottom of the AL West. Their offense has been inconsistent, but Brent Rooker has been a bright spot, leading the team with 10 home runs. Shea Langeliers has also been productive, hitting .361 with two home runs and eight RBIs over his last 10 games.

The Athletics have struggled at home, posting an 8-15 record at the Coliseum. Their pitching staff has been shaky, with a 7.41 ERA over the last 10 games.

Starting Pitchers

Los Angeles Angels: Jack Kochanowicz (3-5, 4.71 ERA)

Kochanowicz is coming off a strong outing against the Dodgers, where he pitched 6.2 innings, allowing just one earned run. He’ll look to continue his momentum against an Athletics lineup that has struggled to generate runs.

Athletics: JP Sears (4-3, 3.31 ERA)

Sears has been the Athletic’s most reliable starter, but he struggled in his last outing against the Giants, allowing four earned runs over four innings. He has had success against the Angels in the past, winning three straight home matchups when starting against them.

Key Matchups

Taylor Ward vs. JP Sears

Ward has been one of the Angels’ hottest hitters, and he’ll look to capitalize against Sears, who has had mixed results against Los Angeles.

Brent Rooker vs. Angels’ Pitching

Rooker has been the Athletics’ biggest power threat, and he’ll need to step up to help the Athletics snap their losing streak.

Bullpen Battle

The Angels’ bullpen has been solid, while Oakland’s relief pitching has struggled. If the game is close late, Los Angeles has the edge.

The Angels have the momentum and a strong offensive presence, making them slight favorites despite playing on the road. Expect a competitive game, but Los Angeles has the advantage.

Game Odds

Los Angeles Angels         10.5

Athletics                              – 175

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 20, 2025