Game Thread 81: Athletics at Cardinals

Tonight marks the halfway point of the A’s season, as they play the first of a quick two game series in St. Louis. The Cards’ season has not been too different than the Athletics’, with the A’s record only being a win and a loss more than that of the Cardinals.

The A’s send out Chris Bassitt, who in his last appearance pitched 5.2 innings wth 2 hits, 2 runs, and 3 walks against the Orioles. St. Louis has Jack Flaherty starting, he’s 4-4 over 15 starts, with his last being a 7.0 innings pitched loss to the Marlins.

Lineups:

Lineup Notes:

• Yes, that’s right, Bassitt is 9th in the lineup. The A’s are playing National League ball tonight. This is Bassitt’s first ever game against the Redbirds, and his second NL game of the season.
• With that, no Khris Davis starting. Limiting his defensive innings may be smart considering what happened last time Khris was fielding.
• Tonight marks Stephen Piscotty’s return to St. Louis after being traded to the A’s after the 2017 season. Piscotty was a first round draft pick for the Cards back in 2012.