Game 41 Thread, Sept. 7, 2020. 8:10 CDT. Astros @ A’s

The Astros had a disastrous series in Anaheim, losing all four games from runs scored by the Angels in their final at bat. Still, they are only 3.5 games behind the A’s for first place in the AL West, so even if they only win three of the five games in Oakland, they can close the gap to 2.5 games.

On the other had, the Seattle Mariners are only 2.5 games behind the Astros in third place, so if the Mariners can stay hot and the Astros continue their slide, this series could see the Astros in third place and on the outside looking in for playoff contention.

This could be the most critical series for the Astros all season.

The biggest problem for the Astros this year has been injuries to pitchers. Two more today. Chris Devenski is back on IL after he made just two appearances since coming back. Even worse, perhaps this year’s most effective reliever, rookie Blake Taylor, is also put on IL, like Devenski, for elbow soreness.

On the other hand, ALEX BREGMAN IS BACK. Welcome back Alex.You have been sorely missed.

Josh Reddick is also out, listed as day to day. Yesterday Lance McCullers was place on IL for neck soreness. Ciionel Perez is his replacement.

Humberto Castellanos and Chase de Jong have been activated to replace Devenski and Taylor.

Here’s the lineup.

For Your Viewing and Listening Pleasure

Game 1: Monday, September 7th @ 8:10 pm CDT

Listen: Astros - KBME 790 AM/94.5 FM HD-2, La Ranchera 101.7 FM/850 AM, KTRH 740 AM/99.1 FM HD-2 / Athletics - KIQI 1010, A’s Cast, Bloomberg 960 AM

Watch: Astros - ATT SportsNet-SW / Athletics - NBCSCA