At one point during the 2014 season, the Oakland Athletics looked to be a runaway for the American League division. They were the story of the season and were only getting better after trading for two more top pitchers to add to the rotation. However, a mid-season slump now has them in the wild Card game facing the Kansas City Royals who are in the postseason for the time since 1985.
The Athletics have been nothing short of a disappointment in the second half of the season. They posted the lowest win percentage of any team since the All-Star game and have not put up a quality win since late July. The Athletics traded for Yeonis Cespedes in hopes of getting more runs, but have been shut out seven times since the deal. They went from being one of the best offensive ball clubs to being the worst in a matter of a few months. Brandon Moss has been hurt. Josh Donaldson has been hurt. The lineup has changed on a daily basis making for more inconsistencies than before.
Jon Lester will take the mound in hopes of getting the Athletics into the actual playoffs. The pitcher was acquired from the Boston Red Sox around the time the Athletics began to struggle. He is 16-11 on the season with a 2.46 ERA, proving to be the best chance Oakland has at getting past the Royals. Against Kansas City, Lester is 9-3 with a 1.84 ERA. It is his best record against any AL team in 13 starts.
The Royals have their own offensive struggles. They ranked last in home runs and walks while finishing ninth in runs scored while no one on the roster put up anything close to 75 RBIs. However, they have led the league in stolen basis which will come in handy against Oakland. Their defense is the biggest advantage for Kansas City. Salvador Perez is the best defensive catcher in the league due to his size and hands. Eric Hosmer has dominated first base while Mike Moustakas is a Golden Glove third baseman.
James Shields takes the mound for the Royals. He is 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA on the season. Against the Athletics he is 6-4 with a 3.82 ERA in 15 starts. The bullpen will be key for Kansas City. Kevin Herrera and Wade Davis will take care of the late innings while Greg Holland comes in to close.
