Oakland A’s Lose 5-2 To Houston Astros To Close Out Their Series

Oakland A’s shortstop Max Schuemann (right) throws to first base after forcing the Houston Astros Jeremy Pena (left) on a double play ball by Jon Singleton in the top of the second inning at the Oakland Coliseum on Sun May 26, 2024 (AP News photo)

Sunday, May 26th, 2024

By Troy Ewers

Oakland, CA – The Oakland A’s host the Houston Astros in the rubber game of a three game series. The Astros continue their seven game road trip here in Oakland. Aaron Brooks on the mound for the A’s and Ronel Blanco for the Astros.

A’s have won 3 of the last five games of the homestand, but are 5-15 over the last 20 games and 22-32 overall, which is the fifth lowest winning percentage in the majors. The Astros rallied for five runs in the top of the fourth that helped get past the A’s for a 5-2 win at the Oakland Coliseum on Sunday.

The fourth inning was where the Astros took charge and didn’t just get a lead, but they had a rally that deflated a ballpark. Yanier Diaz hit a sac fly and scored Jon Singleton, who got on from a double, 1-0 Astros.

After Mauricio Dubon got on base from a horrendous double, Jose Altuve singled and scored Jake Meyers and Dubon, 3-0 Astros. Following the Altuve single, Kyle Tucker hit a 2 run homer, 5-0 Astros and Aaron Brooks was now fighting a different battle. 

A’s finally got on the board when Max Schuemann hit a lead off home run off Blanco, 5-1 Astros still in the lead. 

Ronel Blanco pitched seven innings in his first game since being reinstated after a ten game suspension for violating the prohibitions on foreign substances. Blanco allowed one run from the Schuemann home run, but six strikeouts only allowing four hits. 

Oakland attempted a comeback in the ninth inning and with one out, Shea Langeliers hit a home run, 5-2. There was no 9th inning rally and the Astros got the win, 5-2. 

Next game for the A’s is Tuesday in Tampa Bay against the Rays after a travel day. The A’s have not announced a pitcher for Tuesday the Rays will start Zack Littell (2-2 ERA 3.42) first pitch in Tampa Bay at 3:50pm PT.