What's Happening?
Brady Basso is set to be the opening pitcher for the Oakland Athletics in their game against the Kansas City Royals on Sunday. This decision comes as the Athletics opt for a bullpen day, with Jeffrey Springs not making his scheduled start in the season finale. Basso, who has primarily served as a reliever in the 2025 season, has made four starts for the Athletics in 2024. However, he has only surpassed two innings in one of his 18 appearances this season, indicating he may not pitch more than once through the batting order during Sunday's game.
Why It's Important?
The decision to have Brady Basso open the game highlights the Athletics' strategic approach to managing their pitching staff, especially in the season finale. Utilizing Basso in this role could impact the team's performance and provide insights into their bullpen's depth and flexibility. For Basso, this opportunity may serve as a chance to demonstrate his capabilities as a starter, potentially influencing his role in future games. The outcome of this game could also affect the Athletics' standing and momentum as they conclude the season.
What's Next?
Following Sunday's game, the Athletics will likely evaluate Basso's performance to determine his future role within the team. Depending on his effectiveness as an opening pitcher, Basso could see more opportunities in similar roles or continue as a reliever. The team's management will also consider the overall performance of their bullpen strategy as they plan for the next season.
