The Oakland Athletics face a critical turning point as the team’s recent 3-17 slide has dropped their record to 41-55, dimming their postseason hopes to less than a 2% chance according to FanGraphs. General manager David Forst acknowledged the team’s struggles to MLB.com, stating the club must improve immediately ahead of the August 3 trade deadline.
Evaluating the Athletics’ Postseason Viability
Just weeks ago, the Athletics sat at 38-38, firmly in contention for the final American League Wild Card spot. The subsequent three-week slump has created a significant hurdle; while they remain 6.5 games back, they must leapfrog seven different teams to return to postseason contention. Per FanGraphs, the statistical probability of a playoff berth has plummeted to under 2%. The front office is now weighing whether to pursue a late-season turnaround or pivot toward selling off assets before the August 3 deadline. According to analysis from MLBTR, the club’s impending free agents have largely underperformed, which may lead to a quiet trade market unless the organization chooses to shop players with remaining team control, such as Shea Langeliers.
Did you know?
The Athletics have already begun roster turnover, designating Aaron Civale for assignment this week. Civale struggled to a 5.42 ERA during his time with the club.
Rotation Changes and the Return of Jacob Lopez
The departure of Aaron Civale has opened a vacancy in the starting rotation, which the team intends to fill with Jacob Lopez. Lopez previously showed promise, recording a 4.08 ERA across 21 appearances, including 17 starts. His transition into the rotation was interrupted by a 6.75 ERA over 12 outings, leading to an option to the minor leagues in early June. Following a brief period of downtime and two successful starts for Triple-A Las Vegas—where he allowed only one earned run over 11 1/3 innings—the team is betting on a return to his previous form.
Coaching Staff Restructuring
The Athletics are moving forward with a revised pitching instruction staff following the firing of pitching coach Scott Emerson. The organization promoted bullpen coach Dan Hubbs to take over Emerson’s duties on an interim basis. To fill the vacancy left by Hubbs, the club promoted Javy Guerra from the Double-A Midland RockHounds. Guerra, 40, brings major league playing experience to the role, including a 2019 title with the Washington Nationals. He had served as the pitching coach for the Midland RockHounds since 2025.
Pro Tip:
When monitoring trade deadline activity, focus on players with multiple years of club control rather than impending free agents. Teams in a rebuilding phase, like the current Athletics, often prioritize long-term asset value over short-term rentals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Athletics fire Scott Emerson?
The team opted for a change in leadership within the coaching staff this week, replacing Emerson with interim pitching coach Dan Hubbs as part of a broader effort to address the team’s recent performance struggles.
Is Jacob Lopez guaranteed a starting job?
Following the designation of Aaron Civale for assignment, the team has confirmed that Lopez will receive another opportunity to start, aiming to replicate the success he found previously.
What is the status of the August 3 trade deadline?
The deadline is less than two weeks away. General manager David Forst has indicated that the team’s performance leading up to that date will dictate whether the front office becomes active in the trade market.
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