Athletics Take Series: Takeaways From Monster Comeback Win vs. Astros

The Athletics would put together a masterclass in the win on Sunday.

Aug 12, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics catcher Brian Serven (10) throws the ball to first to record an out against the Tampa Bay Rays in the seventh inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

After getting shut out in Game 1, the Athletics have not looked back.

At one point during the series finale, the Athletics would fall behind 6-0, with not much hope left. However, a spark was lit beneath them as they ripped off six runs in the fifth to tie the game and eventually took the lead in the seventh off a Max Muncy home run. A very solid game.

Basso x Perkins Isn't Going To Work

Aug 18, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Athletics pitcher Jack Perkins (50) pitches during the sixth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

During the nightmarish Royals series, a bright spot would emerge, as both Brady Basso and Jack Perkins would combine for 6.0 innings while allowing only three hits. This opener, with a long-man combination, looked great on paper and produced well. But ironically, this decision would cost the Athletics late in the game, as their best reliever at the time, Basso, had already been used.

Even with the drawbacks, the Athletics would put out the same formula. The duo would combine for 6.0 innings (Basso: 1.0, Perkins: 5.0), during which they would allow four earned runs, along with two unearned runs. With Perkins now being serviceable, it might be worth using him without a starter moving forward. At the bare minimum, they should use a different reliever to open instead of Basso.

Brian Serven Is a Monster

Aug 23, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Athletics catcher Brian Serven (10) hits a three-run home run during the fifth inning against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

With no Shea Langeliers and Jonah Heim in a rough patch, the Athletics have gladly accepted what Brian Serven has been able to accomplish. Since the break, he is batting .231 with a .788 OPS. He is also third on the Athletics in home runs with four, and tied with Heim for fifth in RBIs with 11.

Considering his small sample size, the Athletics might have a solid No. 2 catcher next season with Langeliers returning and Heim likely to sign with another team this offseason. It should also be mentioned that Serven has recorded at least one RBI in his last three outings. A very surprising bright spot this season that could have huge implications in 2027.

Henry Bolte Is a 2027 All-Star

Aug 12, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics center fielder Henry Bolte (33) runs towards first after hitting a single against the Tampa Bay Rays in the sixth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Henry Bolte has quietly emerged as one of the best young Athletics right now. Even with guys like Zack Gelof and Lawrence Butler still healthy, Bolte has already surpassed them in overall impact. Since the break, Bolte is batting .282 with a .751 OPS, along with 10 RBIs and three home runs.

And while these numbers are not anything crazy, Bolte's potential once he figures a few things out will be scary. Not only is he maybe the fastest player in MLB, but he is developing power to go along with it. After a 3-for-5 performance in the win, in which he would double and score a run, everything above is reinforced even more.