This is a 6* play on OAKLAND

We rode Oakland to victory the first two games of this series, including a 19-4 win Monday where they collected season-highs in both runs and hits. It proved prudent to lay off last night as they lost 6-4 to the Royals after twice blowing a two-run lead. Had they won last night, we would have likely again laid off today as it's pretty difficult to sweep a four-game series on the road. But the loss last night opens up a golden opportunity to fire here as the A's certainly are the better team and Kansas City is only 18-33 in day games. Chris Bassitt gets the nod for Oakland. He has gone 2-0 with a 2.05 ERA in his last five starts. Bassitt has allowed just seven runs total in those last five starts, which have spanned more than 30 innings. So he's in solid form. Can't say the same for Royals starter Glenn Sparkman, who is not only winless his last seven starts (0-4) but has a 7.50 ERA to show for it. Kansas City has won back to back games just once this month and that came at the expense of the Tigers. Oakland is a better team in all facets and should easily rebound from last night's defeat. Play on OAKLAND

AAA