Game Thread #98: Athletics at Twins

The Athletics head to Target Field to start off a four game set in the twin cities. It has only been 2 weeks since the A’s saw the Twins and since then the green and gold have only lost one game, while the Twins went 4-4 in that same span.

Kyle Gibson is starting for the home team. The longtime Twin bested the A’s in his start two weeks ago, but since then has only pitched 4.2 innings. One start was an opening appearance on short rest, but the righty was taken out after 80+ pitches in less than 4 innings against Cleveland last week.

Pitching for the A’s is the dependable Mike Fiers, having a great stretch through the summer. Since his no-hitter in May, Fiers has only had one start go less than 6 innings, and has not given up more than 3 earned runs in a start. His last appearance was 7 innings of shutout ball, and the last run allowed by Fiers was struck when he faced the Twins in Oakland.

Lineups:

Lineup Notes:

• Mark Canha is in the cleanup spot again today. If yesterday proved anything, Mark is making the best of the opportunity by having his first ever multi-homer game.
• Profar also gets a second start in a row after a multi-dinger day yesterday.
• No Chapman today as he left yesterday’s win with a sore ankle.

The A’s look to reverse their fortune as they have a repeat matchup from a loss a fortnight ago, this time looking to take the win and keep their winning streak intact.