baseball

Game #9: Astros at Athletics Game Thread

Yahoo Sports

Let’s end the weekend with a win

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 30: Athletics pitcher Jacob Lopez (57) pitches during the MLB game between the Athletics and the Atlanta Braves on March 30th, 2026 at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Our A’s and the Astros traded blowout wins in the first two games of the series. Today’s rubber match will determine who takes the series.

The Athletics have an excellent chance to win their first of the year and get on the right foot before heading to New York. Left-hander Jacob Lopez is set to get the ball for the second time this season. The 28 year old had a tough outing his last time out against the Braves, walking five and allowing theee runs in just four innings of work.

On the bright side Lopez has been dominant against these Astros in his career so this could be the perfect matchup to get him going. Here’s the Athletics’ lineup for the finale: Today's lineup vs. Houston – April 5, 2026 at Sutter Health Park pic.

twitter. com/V1a8N0ieYM — A's Communications (@AthleticsPR) April 5, 2026 Off day for regular center fielder Denzel Clarke, with Lawrence Butler sliding over to take over up the middle. That means we’ll get Carlos Cortes in right field this afternoon.