JP Sears Starts As Athletics Face Angels In Sacramento
The Oakland Athletics will look to break a frustrating seven-game losing streak tonight as they host the Los Angeles Angels at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento. With both teams battling for position in the American League West, the stakes are high, especially as the A’s trail the Angels by only two games in the loss column. A win tonight would not only halt Oakland’s skid but also give them a shot to leapfrog their division rival in the next two games.
Taking the mound for the Athletics is left-hander JP Sears, a 29-year-old who has been one of Oakland’s more consistent pitchers this season. Through nine starts, Sears holds a 4-3 record and a 3.31 ERA across 49 innings. He has also fared well historically against the Angels, going 2-0 with a 1.59 ERA in two starts against them last season, allowing just two earned runs over 11.1 innings.
The Angels will counter with 24-year-old righty Jack Kochanowicz, who brings a 3-5 record and a 4.71 ERA into tonight’s contest. Kochanowicz has struggled in his brief history against the A’s — in his only prior appearance, a 2024 start, he allowed five earned runs over just 3.2 innings, resulting in a staggering 14.14 ERA.
Tonight’s game also marks the continuation of the Athletics’ brief home series in Sacramento — a change of scenery meant to engage fans in Northern California while the team finalizes long-term stadium plans. Despite the new setting, the team’s recent performance has been all too familiar: losses have mounted due to inconsistent hitting and bullpen struggles.
Notably absent from Oakland’s lineup is rookie standout Jacob Wilson, who is sitting out due to a left forearm contusion. His bat and glove have been key for the A’s this season, and his absence could be a factor, especially as the team looks to generate offense early against Kochanowicz.
Fans can tune into tonight’s action via NBC Sports California, or listen through multiple radio affiliates, including Talk 650 KSTE, A’s Cast, and KWNR 95.5 The Bull. The first pitch is scheduled for 6:40 PM Pacific Time.
This matchup is crucial for both clubs. The Angels are also in the midst of an up-and-down stretch, and while they have the edge in the standings, their starting rotation has been shaky, giving the A’s a chance to capitalize if their offense shows up.
For JP Sears, tonight offers an opportunity to further cement his role as the team’s ace. A strong outing against a division opponent, particularly one with playoff aspirations, would be a major boost for a team in desperate need of momentum.
The A’s lineup — despite Wilson’s absence — features several promising bats that will need to step up. Look for Brent Rooker and Esteury Ruiz to play key roles in igniting the offense.
If Oakland can snap its losing streak and notch a win tonight, it could mark a turning point in a season that has seen plenty of turbulence. A solid outing from Sears and timely hitting could be the formula the A’s need to reverse course.
RELATED
