Athletics Finally Take One: Takeaways From Series-Tying Win

After losing their last five, the Athletics needed something to give in what could have been the series-deciding game.

Aug 22, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Athletics pitcher Jacob Lopez (57) throws a pitch against the Houston Astros during the first inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Athletics' generational skid has been put on pause for the most part.

After getting swept by the Royals and getting silenced by the Astros in Game 1, the A's knew something needed to give. And while this is a nice notion, it should be stated that they would have their best pitcher on the mound, which makes a comeback effort that much easier.

The Law-Dog Can Play

Aug 14, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics right fielder Lawrence Butler (4) reacts after hitting a solo home run against the Texas Rangers during the seventh inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Aside from the likes of Jeff McNeil, Lawrence Butler has been the Athletics' best player since the break. Since then, he has clobbered six homers while maintaining a solid .270 batting average and .830 OPS. Before the break, Butler had only hit five home runs, while posting an ugly .196 batting average and .592 OPS. A significant change to this point.

With so much offensive talent sidelined, the A's needed a handful of players to reach for the stars. But after McNeil did so, and Henry Bolte and Zack Gelof also contributed solid numbers, Butler has to follow suit if there is any hope for a turnaround. And even though it might be too late, Butler is trending in the right direction, which could point to a massive 2027 season.

Jacob Lopez Is on Ace Watch

Athletics pitcher Jacob Lopez (57) throws a pitch in the second inning of the MLB Interleague game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Athletics at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026 The game was tied 1-1 after three innings. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

After a bumpy outing from the Athletics' current ace, JT Ginn, in the series opener, Jacob Lopez would put on an absolute show in Game 2. In the win, Lopez pitched 6.0 innings while allowing just three hits, one run, and striking out nine. Considering he only threw 91 pitches, we may have been able to see him reach the seventh inning and beyond.

Since the break, Lopez has been head and shoulders above everyone else in the Athletics rotation. He now holds a 2.33 ERA, along with an elite 1.03 WHIP. Not to mention his 47 strikeouts, which lead the Athletics. Domination is the only word that can be used to describe the run Lopez is on right now.

Elvis Alvarado Is Athletics' Best Reliever

Aug 2, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics pitcher Elvis Alvarado (37) throws a pitch against the Detroit Tigers during the fourth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

In a recent article, we went in depth on Elvis Alvarado's season, looking past ERA and other common pitching stats. We found that Alvarado has all the intangibles to be an elite pitcher in MLB. After yet another efficient outing to earn a save, we could be witnessing the start of something great.

In Alvarado's last 15 games, he has posted a very good 1.38 ERA in 13.0 innings pitched. In that time, he allowed only eight hits while striking out 15 batters. With everything in mind, it is clear that this is not a lucky stretch but rather the logical end for a pitcher who consistently touches 100 mph and has great off-speed stuff. There is little doubt that the Athletics have found something special.