There were many dismal statistics rattled off after the Oakland Athletics were swept by the Houston Astros for the first time in franchise history this past weekend. Here’s a review of the 2015 A’s we are seeing so far:
- 0-for-7 in day games
- 0-for-8 in games decided by two runs or less
- Swept for the first time since September 2012
- Four games under .500 for the first time since July 2012
- Six bullpen losses most in majors
These are thoroughly depressing and telling numbers, particularly when it comes to close games and the bullpen. When the A’s came back to tie the game late against the Astros on Friday night and then again to take the lead Sunday afternoon, fans could not feel confident in the bullpen to hold the game, and with good reason. The very area that had been the Athletics’ strong point in seasons past is becoming their Achilles heel. Another area that is stinging the A’s is their sloppy defense. In close games the Athletics are giving their opponents extra opportunities with misplayed balls, even by the best of defenders in Oakland. So what are we to make of this bleak start for the green and gold?
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Well before we throw in the towel on this young season let’s remember this is a marathon, not a sprint. The A’s will post a losing record in the first month of 2015 baseball. But there are some things to look forward to as April wraps up. Sean Doolittle is moving along in the rehab of his injured shoulder as he was set to throw 20-25 pitches from flat ground on Sunday. One just hopes his return, projected for June, comes before the bullpen blows too many more save opportunities. On a similar timetable for return is Ben Zobrist, who the A’s put on the DL for his knee injury requiring surgery. While this is a definite disappointment for the Athletics, having these two key players back and healthy for the heat of the season will be vital.
It seems the day off cannot come at a better time. The A’s need to brush off the bad weekend and regroup as they prepare to take on the LA Angels in Oakland as they wrap up their homestand this week.