MLB Game Preview: Athletics (22-22) vs. San Francisco Giants (25-19)

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The Athletics (22-22) and San Francisco Giants (25-19) are set to face off in the series opener at Oracle Park. The Giants enter the matchup as home favorites while the Athletics look to build momentum after a strong road performance this season, boasting a 14-9 record away from home.

Starting Pitchers

Athletics – JP Sears (LHP, 3-2, 3.61 ERA)

  • Sears has been dominant against the Giants, posting a 0.61 ERA in two career starts against them.
  • He has four quality starts this season and has held opponents to a .238 batting average.
  • In his most recent start, he pitched six innings, allowing two earned runs.

San Francisco Giants – Logan Webb (RHP, 4-1, 2.89 ERA)

  • Webb has been outstanding at home, going 2-0 with a 0.44 ERA and 22 strikeouts over his first three starts at Oracle Park.
  • He has six quality starts this season and has limited opponents to a .215 batting average.
  • In his last outing, he pitched seven innings, allowing just one earned run.

Key Players to Watch

Athletics

  • Jacob Wilson (SS) – Leads the Athletics with a .347 batting average, adding nine doubles and five home runs.
  • Shea Langeliers (C) – Has eight home runs and 14 walks, providing power in the middle of the lineup.
  • Brent Rooker (OF) – Leads the team with 10 home runs, making him a key offensive threat.

San Francisco Giants

  • Jung Hoo Lee (OF) – Batting .286 with 11 doubles, two triples, and six home runs.
  • Matt Chapman (3B) – Has eight home runs, providing power in the Giants’ lineup.
  • Wilmer Flores (1B) – Leads the team with 33 RBIs, making him a consistent run producer.

Game Strategy & Predictions

  • Athletics’ Game Plan:
    • Sears must continue his dominance against the Giants, limiting hard contact.
    • Oakland’s offense needs to capitalize on scoring opportunities, as San Francisco has a 3.59 team ERA, ranking 8th in MLB.
    • The Athletics must avoid defensive mistakes, as the Giants have a 17-2 record when scoring at least five runs.
  • Giants’ Game Plan:
  • Webb must control the strike zone and avoid giving up early runs.
  • San Francisco hitters need to be aggressive early, as Sears has been tough against them in the past.
  • The Giants’ bullpen must be ready, as the Athletics have the second-ranked team slugging percentage in the AL (.428).

Game Odds

Athletics                              7

San Francisco Giants      – 205

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 15, 2025