A look at the factors that have contributed to a surprising 4-3 start for the A’s heading in to Toronto.
The Athletics are 4-3, and you’re surprised. After a crash and burn in their opener a week ago in Philadelphia, it was easy to assume their eastern swing to open the season would be a disaster.
Next up is a three-game road series against Toronto and Chapman. Instead of limping in at 1-6 or 2-5, the A’s have a winning record and the jolt of confidence that goes with it. Manager Mark Kotsay, the man who replaced Melvin, talked about “opportunity” until he was blue in the face all through spring training and although the season is still in its infancy, his players appear to be listening.
OK, the playoffs may be a reach and it’s conceivable the kind of success the A’s had against Tampa Bay is not sustainable in the long run. But there have been some clues that it may not be necessary to avert your eyes.Frankie Montas, Irvin and Paul Blackburn all had quality starts against Tampa Bay, with only Adam Oller, obtained in the Bassitt deal, faltering in his big league debut. Daulton Jeffries won the final game against Philadelphia.