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The Oakland Telegraph
21 August 2028
Neck and neck battle between Oakland and Houston for the AL West title
By Terry Fick-Season, exciting season correspondent
Oakland and Houston fans are enjoying a terrific battle for the 2028 American League West title, as their teams go mano a mano in the race for the divisional pennant and a postseason spot. It's currently advantage A's; but only just. Paulie Beane's boys stand at 73-44, just half a game ahead of the 72-44 Astros. It couldn't be closer. Okay, technically it could be, but it's very exciting nonetheless.
Beane paid tribute to his batting lineup, who have outperformed his expectations so far this season. Their 643 runs scored so far ranks second in the American League. Second baseman Alejandro Gusman is the leader of the offense. The roadrunner has 49 stolen bases, and he's set to smash the single-season franchise record of 55 that he himself set in 2026. His 74 walks jointly leads the entire major leagues. Designated hitter Dennis Hawkins has arguably been the pick of the bunch, however. Hawkins doesn't play against lefties, but has 90 RBIs and a .937 OPS in 100 games. His 118 RBIs last year is another franchise batting record under threat.
Beane told reporters after yesterday's 4-3 loss to the Minnesota Twins that he couldn't quite believe how great the lineup had been this year. "I expected us to be mediocre at best from the plate, but they've stepped up to the, er, plate, and been outstanding. I feel we've hit a sweet spot with this team now; it's just unfortunate that Houston appear to have too." He visibly shuddered when asked his thoughts on the prospect of appearing in yet another wildcard game if the Astros pip them to the title.
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