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The Oakland Telegraph
8 September 2033
A's take decisive step towards the postseason with series sweep over Texas
By Dee Sysive, bellweather results correspondent
Oakland GM Paulie Beane was all smiles at last night's post-match press conference, after his team wrapped up a potentially crucial 3-0 series sweep over Texas, their opponent in what continues to be a thrilling and enthralling contest for the American League West division title.
The starting rotation, so slated and criticised last season, came through and delivered the goods, big style. Anastasio Vasquez threw 8 scoreless innings in the series opener. Brad Dundee then went 8 innings for 2 runs the next night. And then Carl Bates yesterday went 7 scoreless innings. In total, the A's restricted Texas to just 3 runs across the 3 games. "That's much more like it", said Beane. The wins mean Oakland are now 90-44, while the Rangers are 5.5 games back at 84-49. Given what a right royal battle it's been between the teams, it doesn't feel like that is remotely an unassailable lead for the A's. It also doesn't feel like it because statistically, with over 25 games still to play, it very clearly isn't unassailable.
Meanwhile, Frank Sargent is making this closing malarkey look all rather straightforward. Sargent took over the role after Jose Duran was traded at the all-star break. The 23-year-old lefty already has 17 saves from 17 opportunities. Overall this season, he has a 1.94 ERA, 2.01 FIP and 0.92 WHIP. Sweet. "Jose who?" chuckled a delighted Beane. "Seriously, Jose who? My memory's useless."
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