They Can't Cheat Their Way Out Of This!

The A’s came into Houston looking to do exactly what the Habit Hunter demanded: spoil the Astros’ season. After getting shut out 4-0 in the opener, the A's responded with a dramatic comeback win and then erased an early 6-0 deficit in the finale to take two of three from Houston. The series featured Brian Serven’s three-run blast, Max Muncy’s go-ahead home run, Tommy White’s big production, and another impressive performance from Donovan Walton, who continues to make his case for more playing time and a higher spot in the batting order. But the wins don’t erase the problems. Hobbes breaks down the A’s struggles with strikeouts, runners left on base, double plays, defensive mistakes, base-running blunders, and questionable pitching decisions. He also examines Jacob Lopez’s outstanding start, the bullpen’s strong overall performance, Luis Medina’s continued struggles, Hogan Harris settling into a setup role, Elvis Alvarado’s emergence, and the frustratingly inconsistent performances from players such as Zack Gelof, Jonah Heim, and Max Muncy. With the Twins coming to West Sacramento next, the Habit Hunter takes one last look at what went right, what still needs fixing, and which players deserve more opportunities down the stretch.