It was a busy week of trades across Major League Baseball. No two teams know this better than the Diamondbacks and Athletics. Arizona shipped off several key contributors just two years removed from a trip to the World Series. For the A’s, standout closer Mason Miller was dealt to San Diego in a blockbuster trade. Now, the focus for each team in the second half revolves around player development. Which of these two rebuilding clubs has the edge tonight?
Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Saturday’s matchup between the Diamondbacks and Athletics.
The Athletics are favorites (-123) over the Diamondbacks, with the over/under set at ten runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s contest.
Diamondbacks vs. Athletics prediction, preview
Right now, neither of these teams are exactly world-beaters. Arizona has some level of pedigree, but far less so after trading away Eugenio Suarez and Merrill Kelly. The biggest issue for the Snakes has been on the mound; they’ve allowed the sixth-most runs per game in baseball. That’s due in large part to the performance of Zac Gallen. Once an All-Star Game starter, the right-hander has fallen off dramatically in 2025. Over 127.0 innings of work, the 29-year-old has notched a 5.60 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 121 strikeouts.
Gallen’s abysmal statistics aren’t very promising, especially heading into a game at Sutter Health Park. Sacramento’s stadium is the league’s second-most hitter-friendly venue, per Savant. It doesn’t help that the Athletics have a surprisingly good lineup filled with quality batters. Five regulars in this lineup have recorded a wRC+ of 110 or greater, including All-Stars Brent Rooker (131 wRC+) and Jacob Wilson (119 wRC+). Rookie Nick Kurtz (179 wRC+) has been on an absolute tear, as well.
That’s not to say Arizona can’t swing it with the best of them. The D-Backs rank seventh in baseball with 4.81 runs scored per game. Granted, losing a slugger such as Suarez isn’t ideal. Still, Ketel Marte (156 wRC+) and Corbin Carroll (133 wRC+) can do some damage. The A’s will hand the ball to J.T. Ginn, making his 14th appearance of the season. So far, so good for the righty (3.89 ERA, 1.18 WHIP). However, he’s far better on the road (2.82 ERA) than at home (4.98 ERA).
Diamondbacks vs. Athletics pick, best bet
Best Bet: Diamondbacks vs. Athletics total over 1 runs (-115)
It’s tempting to go with the under, due to the fact that a great Gallen start would be all it takes. However, ignore the name on the back of the jersey. Any struggling arm pitching in Sacramento is someone to fade. Ginn’s home/road splits only make the over more enticing. Expect plenty of fireworks on Saturday night.
