Texas (14-10) at Athletics (11-13)
- When: Apr 24 2025, 10:05 PM
- Where: Sutter Health Park, West Sacramento
- Where to watch: MLB.tv
MLB Betting Preview Expert Predictions: Rangers vs. Athletics
Moneyline Favorite: Texas -145 | Total: 8.5
Texas Rangers Outlook
The AL West-leading Rangers aim to take the rubber match Thursday and add another notch in the win column behind ace Jacob deGrom. The veteran right-hander, still searching for his first win since April 2023 due to Tommy John recovery, showed signs of vintage dominance in his last start. DeGrom pitched seven innings of one-run ball against the Dodgers, allowing just three hits, one walk, and striking out seven. Despite the loss, he was lights out after giving up a leadoff homer — retiring 20 of the last 23 batters faced.
DeGrom owns a 5.40 ERA in two career starts against Oakland, but if he pitches like he did last week, he’s poised to flip that script. Backing him on Thursday is a Texas offense that already flexed its power earlier in the series with long balls from Marcus Semien, Josh Smith, Wyatt Langford, and Jake Burger in Game 1’s 8-5 win.
Top Player Props:
Jacob deGrom over 6.5 strikeouts – After punching out 7 in his last outing, he looks ready to build momentum.
Marcus Semien to hit a home run or record 2+ RBIs – He’s had the hot bat early in the series.
Prediction: The Rangers will bounce back with deGrom on the mound, covering the moneyline behind a sharp start and some timely power at the plate.
Score Prediction: Rangers 5, Athletics 2
Oakland Athletics Outlook
Despite opening the season without a series win in their temporary West Sacramento home, the Athletics showed some grit on Wednesday with a 5-2 win to even the series. Rookie right-hander J.T. Ginn will toe the rubber for Oakland, hoping to repeat last season’s success against Texas. In his lone start versus the Rangers, he allowed just two runs over 5.1 innings in a tight 3-2 win.
Ginn has quietly been solid early this year, and he’ll need to bring his A-game against a Texas squad that can slug with the best. On the offensive side, Shea Langeliers led the charge with a 4-for-4 performance on Wednesday, while Lawrence Butler homered, and highly-touted prospect Nick Kurtz made an immediate impact in his debut.
Top Player Props:
Shea Langeliers over 1.5 total bases – He’s swinging one of the hottest bats in the A’s lineup.
J.T. Ginn under 2.5 earned runs allowed – Capable of keeping it close through the early innings.
Prediction: Ginn might keep it close early, but it’s hard to trust Oakland’s bullpen or lineup against a healthy deGrom. Expect a competitive start that fades late.
Betting Recommendation:
Lean on Texas -145 for the win, especially with deGrom returning to form. Also consider the under 8.5 (-115), as both starting pitchers are capable of keeping runs down early in the contest.
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
