MLB Game Preview: Los Angeles Angels (23-25) vs. Athletics (22-28)

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The Los Angeles Angels and Athletics will face off in the final game of their three-game series at West Sacramento on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 3:35 PM ET. The Angels have won the first two games of the series, 4-3 and 7-5, and will look to complete the sweep, while the Athletics aim to snap their seven-game losing streak.

Team Overview & Season Performance

Los Angeles Angels (22-25, 5th in AL West)

  • The Angels have been on a hot streak, winning five straight games.
  • Taylor Ward leads the team with 13 home runs and 27 RBIs, ranking 7th in MLB in homers.
  • Nolan Schanuel has been a consistent hitter, batting .277 with nine doubles and three home runs.
  • Tyler Anderson is expected to start, holding a 2-1 record with a 3.78 ERA.

Athletics (22-27, 4th in AL West)

  • The Athletics have struggled recently, losing seven straight games.
  • Brent Rooker leads the team with 10 home runs, while Tyler Soderstrom has 30 RBIs.
  • Luis Severino is expected to start, holding a 1-4 record with a 4.22 ERA.
  • Athletics’ offense has been inconsistent, ranking 9th in MLB in home runs but struggling with batting average.

Key Matchups to Watch

Taylor Ward vs. Oakland’s Pitching

  • Ward has been on fire, hitting five home runs in his last 10 games.
  • Oakland’s pitching staff must find ways to neutralize his power.

Luis Severino vs. Angels’ Lineup

  • Severino has been solid in recent starts, including a six-inning shutout against San Francisco.
  • If he can limit early damage, Oakland will have a strong chance to win.

Brent Rooker vs. Angels’ Pitching

  • Rooker has been Oakland’s most dangerous hitter, but he has struggled recently.
  • If he can break out of his slump, Oakland’s offense could be more competitive.

X-Factors

Angels’ Offensive Momentum

  • The Angels have been one of the best power-hitting teams, ranking 3rd in MLB in home runs.
  • If they continue their aggressive offensive approach, Oakland will struggle to contain them.

Oakland’s Home Performance

  • The Athletics have been inconsistent at home, going 8-15 at Oakland Coliseum.
  • If they can capitalize on home-field advantage, they could avoid the sweep.

Weather Conditions

  • The forecast calls for clear skies, meaning ideal hitting conditions.

Prediction & Final Thoughts

This matchup features two struggling pitchers, meaning offense could be the deciding factor. The Angels enter as favorites, but Oakland has a chance to steal a win if Severino dominates.

Oakland must generate early offense, while Los Angeles will look to capitalize on their power-hitting and winning momentum. Expect a competitive, high-energy game at Oakland Coliseum.

Game Odds

Los Angeles Angels         10.5

Athletics                              – 135

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, May 21, 2025