Oakland Athletics vs Philadelphia Phillies Picks and Predictions May 23rd 2025

Athletics Look to End Skid Against Surging Phillies

When everything goes wrong at once, even the best managers can be left scratching their heads. That’s exactly where Mark Kotsay finds himself as his Oakland Athletics open a three-game home series Friday night against the Philadelphia Phillies, the current powerhouse of the National League.

With nine straight losses and no clear fix in sight, the A’s face a challenge made even steeper by the opponent: the Phillies ride into West Sacramento on a seven-game winning streak, armed with elite pitching and a red-hot lineup.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s going right for Philly, what’s gone wrong for Oakland, and how Friday’s showdown could unfold.

A’s Skid Continues as Bullpen Falters Again

On Thursday, the Athletics seemed poised to break their losing streak. They led the Angels 5-2 after six innings thanks to a strong outing from Luis Severino, who gave up just two runs across six frames with five strikeouts and no walks.

Then came the seventh inning—and everything unraveled.

Reliever Grant Holman loaded the bases and gave up a grand slam to Taylor Ward followed by a solo shot from Logan O’Hoppe. The game spiraled out of control as the Angels went on to win 10-5.

A’s manager Mark Kotsay didn’t sugarcoat the collapse:
“We just couldn’t get there… We’re going to keep working. That’s all we can do.”

To dive into more bullpen breakdowns and player performances, visit the Athletics Team Page.

Philadelphia’s Pitching Machine Rolls On

While Oakland’s bullpen struggled, the Phillies’ pitching staff continued to shine. On Thursday, Ranger Suarez threw 6 2/3 scoreless innings against Colorado, giving up six hits and walking three.

Even in Coors Field, Suarez kept his cool:
“The cutter was working well,” he said postgame.

Orion Kerkering, Matt Strahm, and Jordan Romano finished the job. Romano, who earned his sixth save, has now allowed just three hits and struck out 13 batters in his last nine scoreless outings.

Philadelphia’s bullpen depth is becoming a major strength—a luxury Oakland sorely lacks.

Want more pitching metrics and updates? Check out the MLB Odds Page.

Zack Wheeler Gets the Ball for Philly

When you’re on a hot streak, it helps to have an ace like Zack Wheeler lined up. The veteran right-hander (5-1, 2.67 ERA) will start Friday night, giving the Phillies their best shot at extending the streak to eight games.

Wheeler’s history against the A’s is a mixed bag:

• 2-1 record
• 6.67 ERA
• Last faced Oakland in June 2023, throwing six shutout innings

This year, though, Wheeler has been in top form. His velocity, control, and ability to command innings make him a constant threat to opposing lineups.

Looking for strikeout props on Wheeler? Visit the MLB Picks Page.

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Oakland’s Pitching Plans Still Up in the Air

With Friday’s starter yet to be announced, the A’s may turn to an opener or bullpen day—a dangerous proposition against a Phillies team that ranks among the best in baseball in runs per game and extra-base hits.

Brent Rooker Offers a Silver Lining

In the midst of all the losing, Brent Rooker remains a bright spot. On Thursday, he went 3-for-4 with a double and a two-run homer, helping the A’s build their short-lived early lead.

Rooker’s bat continues to provide rare production in an otherwise inconsistent Oakland lineup. If the A’s have any chance of stealing a win this weekend, Rooker will need to be front and center.

Harper, Kepler Lead a Balanced Phillies Attack

Bryce Harper is locked in. Over the course of Philly’s seven-game win streak, Harper is batting .500 (14-for-28) with four doubles, a homer, and nine RBIs. He added an RBI double on Thursday.

Max Kepler joined the fun as well, tacking on another key RBI hit. Manager Rob Thomson praised the offensive approach:
“We’ve made some adjustments, and I think they’ll continue to do it… Harp looks good at the plate right now.”

For more player splits and daily fantasy value, check out the Phillies Team Page.

What to Watch in the Series Opener

This matchup may seem lopsided on paper, but every game starts 0-0. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

Can the A’s stop the bleeding?
A nine-game losing streak is hard to snap—especially against the league’s top team. But one sharp outing from their starter (whoever it is) could flip the script.

Is Harper about to go on a tear?
He already might be. If Harper stays hot, Oakland’s pitchers are in trouble.

Can Rooker carry Oakland’s offense?
He’s been their best bat by far. He’ll need help from the middle of the order if the A’s hope to score off Wheeler.

Will Philly’s bullpen stay dominant?
If Suarez and Romano’s momentum carries into the weekend, the A’s may be lucky to score at all.

FAQs

What is Oakland’s current losing streak?
The Athletics have lost nine straight games heading into Friday night’s matchup.

Who is starting for the A’s on Friday?
As of now, Oakland has not announced a starter. They may use a bullpen day or opener.

How has Zack Wheeler performed against the A’s?
He’s 2-1 with a 6.67 ERA in his career against Oakland but threw six scoreless innings in his last outing vs. them.

How good is the Phillies’ bullpen right now?
It’s among the best in baseball. Jordan Romano has pitched nine straight scoreless outings with 13 strikeouts.

What’s Bryce Harper’s recent form?
He’s batting .500 with nine RBIs during the Phillies’ seven-game win streak.

Where can I find picks and predictions for this game?
Check the Expert Betting Guide for daily analysis and matchups.