Newcomer starting pitcher Joey Estes pitched well, striking out five batters in five innings to claim his first victory in the major leagues. The Oakland Athletics triumphed over the Seattle Mariners 8-1 on Saturday night.
Abraham Toro and Brent Rooker contributed with run-scoring singles in the third inning, giving Oakland a 2-1 lead. Max Schuemann’s three-run double in the eighth inning and JJ Bleday’s two-run homer in the ninth further solidified the Athletics’ win, breaking a two-game losing streak. The Athletics had struggled, losing five out of six games following a six-game winning streak.
Estes faced a tough moment early in the game when he was hit by a line drive from Julio Rodríguez in the first inning, causing injury to his right bicep. However, Estes showed determination by continuing to play, declining assistance from the trainer.
Manager Mark Kotsay praised Estes’ resilience, stating, “You knew he was focused when Julio’s line drive hit his biceps, and he didn’t flinch.
That kid, I can’t really describe him. Taking a hit like that and not wanting help from the trainers, that’s impressive.”
Despite conceding a solo home run to Cal Raleigh in the second inning, Estes regained control, and the game turned in favor of the Athletics.
Before Estes’ call-up to replace the injured fifth starter Joe Boyle, Athletics starters had struggled, allowing 55 runs in the previous six games, including an 8-1 loss to the Mariners on Friday night. Estes delivered an excellent performance, conceding only two hits and walking none in 61 pitches.
Reflecting on his achievement, Estes expressed his joy, saying, “It’s amazing. I’ve worked hard all my life to earn my first win, so it’s definitely a moment I’ll cherish.”
