Los Angeles Dodgers vs Oakland Athletics Picks and Predictions May 14th 2025

Hometown Hero: Jacob Wilson Shines at Dodger Stadium

Jacob Wilson couldn’t have scripted a better homecoming.

The Oakland Athletics’ 23-year-old rookie, who grew up in Thousand Oaks, California, made his mark Tuesday night with a spectacular four-hit, two-home run performance against the Los Angeles Dodgers. For Wilson, this wasn’t just any ballpark—it was the place he visited countless times growing up, watching his father, former MLB shortstop Jack Wilson, compete on the same field.

“Being out here and getting that first win is pretty awesome,” Wilson said after helping his team trounce the Dodgers 11-1. “I’ve been here a lot—watching my dad, seeing old teammates and coaches. But playing here and performing like this? It’s special.”

A Rising Star: Jacob Wilson’s Stats Speak Volumes

Wilson’s offensive outburst Tuesday wasn’t a one-off. The rookie phenom now boasts 16 multi-hit games this season and a scorching .363 batting average, second in the American League only to Aaron Judge’s .410. Even more impressively, Wilson has struck out just nine times, the lowest among players hitting above .300.

This level of contact, consistency, and power so early in his career has Wilson trending toward potential Rookie of the Year honors. Don’t Miss The Latest Baseball Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

Athletics’ Pitching Depth Continues to Impress

While the offense garnered headlines, Jeffrey Springs quietly dominated from the mound, allowing just one run over seven innings. On Wednesday, the A’s will hand the ball to Gunnar Hoglund (1-0, 2.38 ERA) for his third major league start.

Hoglund has shown poise and maturity beyond his years. His debut on May 2 was a gem: one run over six innings with seven strikeouts against Miami. In his follow-up start against Seattle, he allowed two runs over 5 1/3 innings, demonstrating consistency and control.

If Hoglund delivers again, the Athletics could secure a surprising series win at Chavez Ravine.

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Dodgers Struggle to Find Rhythm Amid Injuries

The Dodgers, perennial National League powerhouses, looked out of sync Tuesday night. Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman combined to go 0-for-9, leaving a gaping hole in the heart of the lineup.

Despite three hits from Will Smith and three doubles from Michael Conforto, the rest of the batting order was silent.

Manager Dave Roberts didn’t hold back:

“As far as collectively, this was as forgettable a compilation of team offense as we’ve seen in quite some time.”

Dodgers Turn to Yamamoto to Stop the Bleeding

Los Angeles will attempt to rebound Wednesday with ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto (4-3, 1.80 ERA) on the mound. With three starters on the injured list, including Roki Sasaki, who was shut down with a right shoulder impingement, the team needs Yamamoto to go deep into the game to give the bullpen a break.

Roberts is also eyeing Thursday as a bullpen-heavy outing and counting on Clayton Kershaw to return Saturday following offseason surgery.

Looking Ahead: Momentum with Oakland

For the Athletics, a young team loaded with potential, Tuesday’s win was more than a morale boost—it was a statement. With rookies like Wilson and Hoglund stepping up, the A’s appear to be building a strong core for the future.

If they can capture another win against Yamamoto and the Dodgers, it could signal a shift in trajectory for a franchise long viewed as a rebuilding project.

Conclusion

Jacob Wilson’s unforgettable night at Dodger Stadium not only highlighted his incredible talent but also marked a potential turning point for the Athletics. As Oakland looks to ride this momentum, all eyes will be on the young stars proving they belong—and perhaps, that the A’s rebuild is ahead of schedule.