It’s anyone’s guess as to who will emerge out of the wide-open AL West. At the moment, it’s the Athletics that sit atop the division with a 10-8 record. On Thursday, they’ll attempt to widen their lead over the second place Rangers (9-9). Can Texas force a series split this afternoon in Sacramento?
The Rangers are favorites (-112) over the Athletics, with the over/under set at 8.5 runs. Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Thursday’s showdown between Texas and the A’s on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Rangers vs. Athletics prediction, preview
It’ll be former top prospect Jack Leiter taking the hill this afternoon for Texas. The right-hander, while talented, has struggled to put it all together during his three-year pro career. Since 2024, he owns a 4.81 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 2.22 K/BB ratio. Thursday’s matchup isn’t ideal for the youngster on a number of different levels. For starters, Leiter tends to pitch worse on the road; he owns a 4.98 career ERA in away games. To make matters worse, this afternoon’s game will take place at hitter-friendly Sutter Health Park.
Regardless of the venue, this Athletics lineup is capable of breaking a game open at any given moment. They’re scoring 5.33 runs per game at home, tied for fifth-most in the league. However, despite all the talent on this lineup, it’s been a bit of a one-man show so far. Shea Langeliers has been an absolute beast, slashing .304/.351/.609 with six home runs and 12 RBIs. Just two other regulars, Max Muncy and Tyler Soderstrom, have an OPS above .700. Reigning AL Rookie of the Year Nick Kurtz has been struggling this month (.271 SLG).
In many ways, the Rangers have been winning in spite of their offense. Just one regular in the lineup, Brandon Nimmo, is hitting above .260 so far. Still, there’s plenty of firepower in the Lone Star State. Corey Seager, despite a lackluster .203 batting average, has slugged five homers over 18 games. That includes a two-run shot during Wednesday’s meeting between these clubs. Fellow masher Jake Burger has also notched five jacks, in addition to a team-leading 15 RBIs. He’s already recorded a trio of dingers during the first three matchups of this series.
For all their offensive prowess, pitching remains uncertain for the Athletics. Staff ace Jeffrey Springs has been terrific, but the rest of the rotation is spotty at best. That includes Jacob Lopez, a second half breakout in 2025 that has struggled this season. Over 13.1 innings of work, the 28-year-old owns a ghastly 7.43 ERA and 2.18 WHIP. During his most recent appearance, the southpaw coughed up five runs over five frames against the Mets. With that being said, the Rangers own the third-lowest OPS against left-handed pitchers this season (.516).
Rangers vs. Athletics pick, best bet
If there’s one thing Leiter tends to do well, it’s keeping the ball inside the park. His career 1.2 HR/9 ratio bodes well going into a battle with the free-swinging A’s. Granted, Texas’ struggles against lefties are cause for concern. However, Lopez has allowed eight earned runs over his previous two meetings with the Rangers (9.39 ERA). Keeping that in mind, the visitors offer value today as slight favorites.
