Surprise of the Season?
Preseason even die-hard Athletics fans were hoping for respectability at best in the tough AFL West and the opening odds of somewhere north of 300-1 suggested this. Fast forward to October and here they are one game away from the Divisional series. Standing in their way however are the NY Yankees fresh off of a 100 win season which included going 53-28 at home; the AL’s second best.
The AL Wild Card Game is scheduled for Wed., 5 p.m. PT, around 1.00 am Thursday for us UK viewers.
Who will start on the Mound?
Naturally for such a crucial game the teams are reluctant to announce the starting pitcher, however the Yankees looked to be teeing up Luis Severino as opener, despite his dismal showing in last seasons Wild Card against The Minnesota Twins. That was probably an aberration and Yankees manager Aaron Boone seems keen to give him a second chance.
Oakland have tended to rely on their Bullpen quite heavily this season and this game should be no exception. We think that late season acquisition Mike Fiers might be the one.
Who Starts Favourite?
The Yankees at home with the better record and recent post season experience are the obvious favourites. However Oakland were no slouches on the road notching up a respectable 47-34 record including a win and a extra innings loss at Yankee stadium. Overall they split the seasons games 3-3.
Our prediction?
Tough one to call (especially given the author is a big As fan) – overall Oakland have overachieved massively this year and home advantage coupled with playoff experience should see NY through For a meeting with divisional rivals Boston.
