Oakland Athletics vs Texas Rangers Picks and Predictions August 29th 2025

Athletics, Rangers Set for Crucial AL West Series

The Oakland Athletics and Texas Rangers meet this weekend in West Sacramento with plenty at stake for both sides. Oakland comes in riding its hottest stretch in years, winning 21 of its last 31 games, capped by a sweep of the Detroit Tigers that has boosted morale inside a young clubhouse. For Texas, the confidence of a 20–3 rout of the Los Angeles Angels was quickly tempered by the loss of star shortstop Corey Seager, who underwent an appendectomy just hours after homering in that game.

The Athletics are trending up thanks to contributions from young talent, while the Rangers are clinging to their postseason hopes. This series could go a long way in shaping each club’s September. For bettors and fans watching MLB scores and odds, the contrast in storylines only adds to the intrigue.

Rangers face life without Seager

Seager’s absence is the biggest storyline entering the series. He has been Texas’ most consistent bat, anchoring the lineup through periods of inconsistency. His surgery is not expected to end his season, but the timeline for his return is uncertain.

Even without him, the Rangers lineup showed what it is capable of against the Angels. Adolis García, Joc Pederson, and Kyle Higashioka each launched three-run home runs and drove in five runs apiece. It was Texas’ highest-scoring output since 2011, a reminder of their explosive ceiling.

Manager Bruce Bochy emphasized the importance of that energy after a season filled with injuries and tough stretches. He noted that rediscovering joy in the game, playing with passion, and carrying that intensity into September are essential if the Rangers want to chase down the Mariners and Royals in the crowded American League wild-card race. For those weighing the latest MLB picks, Seager’s absence may affect the odds, but Texas’ lineup depth remains dangerous.

Oakland’s surprising rise

While Texas is fighting to hold on, Oakland is embracing a role as a late-season spoiler and perhaps even more. After years of rebuilding and turmoil, the Athletics are suddenly stringing together wins with consistency. Their sweep of Detroit was particularly impressive, as they rallied against reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal and then shut out the Tigers to close the set.

Manager Mark Kotsay admitted that Thursday’s off day came at a bad time, given how well the club was playing. He credited his players’ continued improvement and commitment to finishing the season strong. Leading the charge is rookie Nick Kurtz, who has quickly become one of the most talked-about young players in baseball.

Kurtz is hitting .309 with 27 home runs and 70 RBIs in just 93 games, flashing the power and polish that made him a top draft pick. Teammates rave about his poise and presence at the plate, with some jokingly comparing him to Babe Ruth. For fans checking MLB expert betting guides, Kurtz’s production has made Oakland one of the most profitable underdog plays in the league.

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Pitching matchup: Jeffrey Springs vs. Jack Leiter

The opening game brings together two pitchers at different stages of their careers.

Jeffrey Springs has been a steady veteran for Oakland, posting a 10–8 record and 4.15 ERA this season. He has been particularly sharp against Texas, blanking them over six innings earlier this year and entering with a 2–0 record and 1.89 ERA across six career appearances against the Rangers.

Jack Leiter, by contrast, represents the future for Texas. The 25-year-old right-hander is 8–7 with a 3.81 ERA and is coming off a dominant outing against Cleveland in which he struck out 10 batters over seven scoreless innings. He already owns a win against Oakland this season and has looked more confident with each passing start.

Pitching comparison

This matchup encapsulates the contrast between the clubs: the Athletics leaning on undervalued arms while the Rangers invest in developing young stars.

Key bats to watch

Texas still has power throughout its lineup, even without Seager. Adolis García has heated up, Joc Pederson remains a streaky threat, and Kyle Higashioka is coming off one of his best games of the season.

Oakland counters with youth. Kurtz is the headliner, but catcher Shea Langeliers and first baseman Tyler Soderstrom have provided crucial power of their own.

Offensive snapshot

These bats will be the focal point for anyone tracking MLB scores and odds, especially in a ballpark that has favored hitters at times this season.

Stakes for both sides

The Rangers sit four and a half games back of Seattle for the last playoff spot, making every series critical. Their margin for error is slim, and their ability to survive without Seager will be tested immediately.

For the Athletics, this series is about more than just the standings. Their resurgence has provided a foundation for the future, showing that the rebuild is starting to pay dividends. Finishing strong in September would validate their progress and give fans a reason to buy in again.

For those studying MLB teams, Oakland’s growth and Texas’ playoff push are two of the most compelling storylines in the American League.

Conclusion

The Athletics and Rangers meet at a crossroads in their seasons. Texas, reeling from the loss of Corey Seager, must prove it can still hit its way into contention. Oakland, riding the wave of Nick Kurtz’s breakout and the development of young arms, looks to continue building momentum.

Baseball in late August often separates contenders from pretenders. For both Oakland and Texas, this series is about proving they belong in the first category, even if their long-term goals differ.