JJ Bleday Player Props: White Sox vs Athletics 8/6

A Plus Picks
Aug 6, 2024, 11:31:44 AM

Photo Credit: © Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports

Game Summary

The Chicago White Sox (27-88, fifth in the AL Central) will face off against the Oakland Athletics (47-67, fifth in the AL West) on August 6, 2025, at the Oakland Coliseum at 9:40 PM EDT. The White Sox are desperate to end their 21-game losing streak, a record that has been a source of frustration for fans and players alike. This matchup presents a unique opportunity for Chicago to break this disheartening trend against the Athletics, who come into this game with a modest home record of 28-29.

Historically, the White Sox and Athletics have faced each other numerous times, with the Athletics holding a slight edge in recent matchups. Chicago’s struggles have been evident, particularly on the road where they have only managed a 10-48 record this season. Meanwhile, the Athletics have shown signs of life, winning six of their last ten games and boasting the eighth-ranked slugging percentage in the American League at .398.

Key performers for the Athletics include Brent Rooker, who leads the team with 50 extra base hits, including 28 home runs. Seth Brown has been heating up recently, batting 12-for-32 with three home runs in his last ten games. For the White Sox, Andrew Vaughn is their standout player, leading the team with 13 home runs and a slugging percentage of .392. Andrew Benintendi has also been effective, going 10-for-34 in his last ten games with four doubles and a home run.

Player Prop Odds

- JJ Bleday Hits: Over 1.5 (+280)
- JJ Bleday RBIs: Over 0.5 (+150)
- JJ Bleday Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (-135)
- JJ Bleday Total Bases: Over 1.5 (+120)

Player Analysis

JJ Bleday has been an emerging player for the Athletics, showcasing a blend of power and speed. He has shown a good eye at the plate, which has allowed him to get on base consistently. This season, Bleday has a batting average of .240 with 40 runs batted in and has demonstrated an ability to come through in clutch situations. His ability to hit for power makes him a dangerous threat in the lineup, especially against a struggling White Sox pitching staff.

Bleday's recent performance indicates that he is becoming more comfortable at the plate. The odds suggest that he has a favorable chance to exceed 1.5 hits and score at least one run in this matchup. His propensity to drive in runs also makes the over on RBIs an appealing option.

Opposing Analysis

The White Sox pitching staff has struggled significantly this season, particularly in their recent games where they have posted a 7.74 ERA over the last ten games. Jonathan Cannon, the probable starter for Chicago, has a record of 1-5 with a 4.11 ERA. While he has shown flashes of potential, he has also been prone to giving up hits and runs.

Against a lineup that includes Bleday and other power hitters like Brent Rooker and Seth Brown, Cannon will need to be on top of his game. The Athletics have been hitting well, and if Cannon struggles, it could open the door for Bleday to have a productive night at the plate.

Pitching Probables

Pitcher	W-L	ERA	Strikeouts
Jonathan Cannon (CHW)	1-5	4.11	46
Ross Stripling (OAK)	2-10	5.64	38

Team Previews

Chicago White Sox

The White Sox have had a tumultuous season, struggling offensively and defensively. They rank near the bottom of the league in batting average (.230) and runs scored (467). Their pitching has been equally disappointing, with a team ERA of 4.36. The White Sox need to find a way to generate more offense, especially with multiple players sidelined due to injuries.

Oakland Athletics

The Athletics have been inconsistent this season but have shown resilience lately. Their batting average of .216 is the lowest in the league, but they have a higher slugging percentage than the White Sox. With players like Rooker and Bleday stepping up, they have the potential to score runs. Their pitching staff, led by Stripling, has been shaky but can perform well against teams struggling as Chicago is.

Team Injuries

Player	Position	Injury Status
Max Stassi	C	60-Day IL (hip)
Mike Clevinger	SP	15-Day IL (elbow)
Yoan Moncada	3B	60-Day IL (abductor)
Drew Thorpe	SP	15-Day IL (flexor)
T. Soderstrom	1B	Expected to be out until at least Aug 23
M. Miller	RP	Expected to be out until at least Aug 9