Game Summary

The Milwaukee Brewers (73-54) are set to visit the Oakland Athletics (55-73) at the Oakland Coliseum for the opening game of a three-game series. The game is scheduled to start at 9:40 p.m. EDT on Friday, August 23, 2024. This matchup marks the first meeting of the season between the two teams.

Both teams are coming into this game with equal records of 6-4 in their last ten games. The Brewers sit first in the NL Central, while the Athletics are fourth in the AL West. Despite their records, the Athletics have shown resilience at home, going 32-33 overall in home games. In contrast, the Brewers have a slightly better away record of 35-30.

Recent form reveals that the Brewers have struggled offensively with a .204 batting average in their last ten games, while their pitching staff has maintained a 3.33 ERA. On the other hand, the Athletics have managed to post a .241 batting average and a solid 3.20 ERA over the same stretch, outscoring their opponents by four runs.

Both teams have some key players to watch. For the Athletics, Brent Rooker leads the team with 29 home runs and a .561 slugging percentage. On the Brewers' side, Willy Adames has been a standout performer with 22 home runs and 85 RBIs, while William Contreras has been hot at the plate with four home runs in his last ten games.

Injuries could also play a significant role in the game, with the Brewers missing Christian Yelich (back) and the Athletics missing Esteury Ruiz (wrist), among others. This could shift the dynamics of the game significantly.

Player Prop Odds

• Batter Doubles: Over 0.5 (+380), Under -650
• Batter Hits: Over 0.5 (-137), Under +106
• Batter Home Runs: Over 0.5 (+400)
• Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (+195), Under -280
• Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (+145), Under -200
• Batter Singles: Over 0.5 (+175), Under -240
• Batter Total Bases: Over 0.5 (-139), Under +107

Player Analysis

Rhys Hoskins has been a key contributor for the Brewers this season. His statistics tell a compelling story:
- **Batting Average**: .217
- **Home Runs**: 20
- **RBIs**: 60
- **Total Bases**: 140
- **On-base Percentage**: .350
His ability to drive in runs and hit for power makes him a player to watch in this matchup. In recent games, Hoskins has shown a knack for coming through in clutch situations, making him a strong candidate for RBI props.

Opposing Analysis

The Athletics will send JP Sears to the mound, who has a solid season with a 10-8 record and a 4.15 ERA. Sears has been effective against right-handed hitters, holding them to a .238 average. This bodes well for Hoskins, who typically performs well against left-handed pitchers.

On the hitting side, the Athletics have struggled against power hitters, allowing numerous home runs throughout the season. Hoskins, with his 20 home runs, could capitalize on this weakness, making the Over 0.5 home runs prop an enticing option.

Prop Analysis

The prop odds for Hoskins provide a mix of opportunities. Given that he has a history of hitting home runs and driving in runs, the Over for RBIs and Home Runs could be favorable bets. His ability to get on base further enhances his chances of scoring runs. The total bases prop also presents a viable option, especially considering that he could easily get a hit or two in this matchup.

Starting Pitching Summary - Team 1

Aaron Civale will start for the Brewers with a 4-8 record and a 4.78 ERA. His strikeout capability (117 strikeouts) is a plus; however, he has struggled with consistency this season. This could impact how the Athletics approach their hitting strategy against him.

Starting Pitching Summary - Team 2

JP Sears will take the mound for the Athletics, boasting a 10-8 record and a 4.15 ERA. His WHIP of 1.18 indicates that he has been effective at limiting base runners. This matchup will test his ability to handle a potent Brewers lineup.

Bullpen Summary - Team 1

The Brewers' bullpen has been somewhat of a mixed bag this season, with a collective ERA of 4.21. They will need to maintain their composure late in the game, especially if the matchup remains close.

Bullpen Summary - Team 2

The Athletics' bullpen has been more reliable with a 3.69 ERA this season. Their ability to hold leads will be crucial in this matchup, especially if they can limit Hoskins' opportunities late in the game.

Team Previews

The Brewers rank 26th in batting average (.231) but have a strong on-base percentage of .331, which is third in the majors. Their pitching staff has been solid, with a 4.21 ERA. In contrast, the Athletics rank 9th in batting average (.253) and 11th in runs scored (603), making them a formidable opponent offensively. Their pitching has also been a strength, with a 3.69 ERA, showcasing their ability to control games.

Team Injuries

Recent Games