The Los Angeles Angels travel north to face the Sacramento Athletics in an AL West matchup on Saturday, August 16, 2025. First pitch from the Sutter Health Park is set for 10:05 PM ET. While neither team is leading the division, this game presents an opportunity for both to gain momentum in the stretch run.
You can find more expert analysis, predictions, and top plays on our MLB Picks page.
Team Analysis
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels have showcased better offensive consistency this season, with Mike Trout and Taylor Ward anchoring the lineup. Jo Adell has provided valuable power in the middle order, and the team has benefited from solid production from young infielders. While their bullpen has been a concern, the Angels have been able to mask some of those issues when their offense clicks early.
Sacramento Athletics
The A’s are still in a rebuild, but young players like Zack Gelof and Lawrence Butler have flashed promise. Brent Rooker’s bat continues to be the main source of power, while the team’s pitching staff has been a mix of developing arms and steady veterans. Winning close games has been a challenge due to bullpen inconsistency, but their energy and hustle remain key factors.
Recent Form
- Angels: 5-5 in their last 10 games, averaging 4.3 runs per game.
- Athletics: 4-6 in their last 10 games, averaging 3.8 runs per game.
Pitching Matchup
| Team | Pitcher | Hand | W-L | ERA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angels | Tyler Anderson | LHP | 7-9 | 4.22 |
| Athletics | Luis Morales | RHP | 3-6 | 4.98 |
Tyler Anderson (LAA) – The veteran lefty relies on location and soft contact rather than overpowering stuff. When his changeup is working, he’s capable of keeping hitters off balance.
Luis Morales (SAC) – The young right-hander has shown flashes of potential with a live fastball and improving secondary pitches, but consistency remains a work in progress.
Key Players to Watch
- LAA: Mike Trout – Always a threat to go deep and change a game’s momentum.
- LAA: Jo Adell – Emerging slugger with big-time power.
- SAC: Brent Rooker – The primary power bat in the Athletics’ lineup.
- SAC: Zack Gelof – Young infielder with improving offensive production.
Prediction
This matchup could come down to which starter settles in faster. Anderson’s experience gives the Angels a slight edge, and with Trout in the lineup, Los Angeles has the firepower to take advantage of any mistake.
Final Score Prediction: Angels 6, Athletics 4
Best Bets
- Angels Moneyline – Better overall lineup and veteran pitching edge.
- Over 8.5 Runs – Both bullpens can be vulnerable late.
- Mike Trout to Hit a Home Run – Excellent matchup against a young pitcher still learning to spot his pitches.
