Angels at Athletics
After splitting a six-game road trip, the Oakland Athletics look to extend their lead in the American League West when they begin a 10-game homestand with Thursday's opener of a four-game set versus the Los Angeles Angels. Coco Crisp belted a two-run homer as Oakland defeated Houston for the 11th time in 12 meetings in Wednesday's 4-3 triumph. The Athletics have thrived in front of their home fans, winning 30 of 45 contests.
Los Angeles' slumping offense reared its ugly head again in Wednesday's 1-0 victory over Minnesota. Albert Pujols' RBI single in the first inning was the only offense for the Angels, who sit 11 games behind the Athletics. Los Angeles has scored seven runs in its last four games - and 13 since returning from the All-Star break.
TV: 10:05 p.m. ET, FSW (Los Angeles), CSCA (Oakland)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels LH C.J. Wilson (10-6, 3.15 ERA) vs. Athletics RH Dan Straily (6-3, 4.14)
Wilson has won six of his last seven starts, highlighted by a three-hit gem over 8 1/3 innings against Oakland on Saturday. The 32-year-old set down 18 in a row at one point before improving to 9-7 versus the Athletics. Wilson has allowed one homer in his last eight starts overall - and just seven in 45 career appearances versus Oakland.
Straily was the unfortunate victim of Wilson's stellar outing as he suffered his first loss since May 15 despite permitting two runs over seven innings. The 24-year-old struggled against the Angels on April 29, yielding six runs on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings, but received a no-decision after Oakland scratched for a 10-8 win. Straily has given up five homers in as many games after allowing three in his first 10.
WALK-OFFS
1. Los Angeles CF Mike Trout saw his career-high 15-game hitting streak come to an end. Trout is 6-for-13 lifetime versus Straily.
2. Oakland OF Yoenis Cespedes returned to the starting lineup after a five-game absence. The Home Run Derby champion is 4-for-11 versus Wilson, but has not gone deep.
3. Angels RF Josh Hamilton has missed three straight games with right ankle stiffness.