Players To Watch
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Athletics' JJ Bleday Poised to Lead Against Phillies in Upcoming Clash

First Inning


As the Athletics prepare to face off against the Phillies at Sutter Health Park, all eyes are on JJ Bleday, the center fielder who has been a standout performer for the Green and Gold. Over the last three games, Bleday's fielding has been impeccable with a flawless fielding percentage of 100 percent. Although his batting average has been below par, he remains a critical player in the outfield.


Jul 13, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Garrett Stubbs (21) runs to third and advances home to score against the Oakland Athletics in the third inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

In contrast, Lawrence Butler has shown consistency at bat with an impressive .400 average in one of the recent games against the Angels. His ability to get on base with an OBP of .4 and slugging percentage of .6 makes him a key offensive asset for the A’s.


On the mound, Justin Sterner has been a reliable reliever for Athletics. With an ERA of 0.0 and WHIP of 0.75 in his last outing, he is expected to be a formidable force against Phillies' hitters. His strikeout rate (K/9) stands at 6.75, indicating his potential to control innings effectively.


Jul 13, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Tyler Phillips (48) throws a pitch against the Oakland Athletics in the first inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

Second Inning


The Phillies come into this game with their own set of star performers. Bryce Harper, playing first base, has been exceptional with a batting average of .400 and an OPS of 1.4 in his recent game against Rockies. His power-hitting capabilities are underscored by his home run tally and RBI contributions.


Trea Turner is another player to watch from Phillies' lineup. The shortstop boasts an impressive .600 batting average over three games and an OPS reaching up to 1.8 in one game against Rockies, showcasing his ability to impact both offensively and defensively.


Jul 13, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos (8) rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the Oakland Athletics in the second inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

Pitcher Jesús Luzardo will be crucial for Phillies as he brings an ERA of 1.5 and WHIP of 0.8333 from his previous performance against Rockies into this matchup.


Third Inning


Looking ahead to this clash between Athletics and Phillies, it's clear that both teams have players capable of turning the tide in their favor. For Athletics, Shea Langeliers behind the plate could play a pivotal role; his batting average peaked at .500 during one game against Angels with two runs scored.


Meanwhile, Seth Brown's perfect hitting record (1-for-1) with an RBI highlights his potential impact as well when given opportunities at bat.


For Phillies, J.T Realmuto's remarkable performance cannot be overlooked; achieving a batting average of .600 and OPS of 2.0 demonstrates his prowess as both catcher and hitter.


Fourth Inning


The bullpen battle will also be intriguing as Athletics’ Grant Holman enters with no earned runs allowed across appearances while maintaining a K/9 rate matching Sterner’s efficiency at nine strikeouts per nine innings pitched.


On Phillies’ side Tanner Banks holds similar promise having not conceded any runs recently coupled with zero walks allowed ensuring tight control over proceedings when called upon from relief duties.


Fifth Inning


As fans gear up for what promises to be an electrifying encounter between these two teams brimming with talent on either side - whether it’s watching live or tuning via NBCS-PH network coverage - anticipation builds around how each inning unfolds come May 23rd under West Sacramento skies!


Be sure not miss out sharing insights about your favorite players before they take stage once more!

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