2025 MLB First-Half Recap: Athletics

The Pitching

The Good

When the season started, a lot of eyes were on those youngsters: Lawrence Butler, who was given a massive extension before the season, Jacob Wilson, Tyler Soderstrom, and Nick Kurtz once he was called up.

Thus far, the kids have been alright.

Kurtz hit 17 home runs in the first half, while Soderstrom, despite a slow run in May & June, hit 18. Jacob Wilson, meanwhile, could be the AL Rookie of the Year thanks in part to a .329 average that ranks among the league’s best.

Wilson’s also hit for power, something which wasn’t necessarily a guarantee that would happen. He hit nine home runs in the first half.

The offense, led by those young players & Brent Rooker, ranked top 10 in home runs and OPS. However, all that power hasn’t completely resulted in runs scored, as the team was in the bottom half at the start of the second half.

The Bad

There’s a reason why the Athletics were 41-57 after the first half.

Every regular starter with the exception of Jeffrey Springs (101 ERA+), has posted numbers in line with the league average. And, many of their key arms have been shelled.

Springs & JP Sears gave up 19 home runs, as the team navigates a ballpark that’s significantly more hitter-friendly compared to the Coliseum.

Luis Severino, who signed the largest free agent deal in franchise history last winter, led the AL in hits given up (122), plus hit by pitches (11), and ERA (65). Severino stated in June that it’s very difficult to pitch in Sacramento, which has reportedly ruffled feathers within the organization.

What to Expect in the Second Half

With so many players on pre-arbitration contracts & young pieces on the MLB roster, there are not many pieces to deal off this roster. Luis Severino, however, will be one to watch if a team wants to take on that contract.

Aside from that, it’ll be all eyes on all the young talent on this team.