The Oakland Athletics concluded their spring training schedule with a resounding 16-11 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday, showcasing a powerful offensive display fueled by five home runs and an eight-run second inning. The game, played at Tempe Diablo Stadium, provided a glimpse of the A’s potential as they prepare for the 2026 season, which will see them temporarily based in West Sacramento before a planned relocation to Las Vegas in 2028, according to Wikipedia.
The A’s offense exploded in the second inning, capitalizing on walks and timely hitting. Tyler Soderstrom highlighted the outburst with a grand slam to right-center field, followed immediately by a home run from Brent Rooker to left-center. Austin Wynns as well contributed a home run during the inning, helping Oakland build an early 8-0 lead. This offensive surge proved crucial as the Angels attempted to mount a comeback later in the game.
The Athletics continued to add to their lead throughout the contest. Max Muncy singled in a run in the sixth, and Michael Stefanic followed with a two-run double. Junior Perez then added a two-run home run, extending the A’s advantage to 13-4. Despite a late push from the Angels, including a five-run eighth inning, Oakland responded with a three-run homer from Clark Elliott in the ninth, solidifying their victory. Elliott’s home run, his first of the spring, pushed the final score to 16-11.
Luis Morales earned the win for the A’s, pitching 3 2/3 innings. While the Oakland bullpen experienced some struggles, allowing runs in the later innings, the team’s potent offense provided enough support to secure the win. Five of the six A’s pitchers allowed at least one earned run, but the consistent hitting proved to be the difference.
The A’s offensive performance was a key factor in their success. Soderstrom finished the game with four RBIs, while Rooker and Wynns each contributed multiple hits and RBIs. The team’s ability to string together hits and capitalize on opportunities was evident throughout the game. The Los Angeles Angels website currently lists their schedule and team information, but did not provide immediate game details following the spring training match.
The Athletics will now turn their attention to the regular season, beginning with a game against the Colorado Rockies on Friday, March 6, at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Arizona. First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. MST. This game will serve as a final tune-up for the A’s before they initiate their season in West Sacramento.
As the A’s prepare for the 2026 season, the team’s performance in spring training offers a promising outlook. The offensive firepower displayed against the Angels suggests that Oakland could be a competitive force in the American League West. The upcoming season will be a pivotal one for the franchise as they navigate their temporary home in West Sacramento and continue planning for their future in Las Vegas.
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