Brent Rooker’s double in the 10th inning sealed a late comeback for the Oakland Athletics, pushing them past the Baltimore Orioles 3-2 on Friday night.
Oakland found themselves down 2-1 but managed to tie the game in the ninth inning against Orioles closer Craig Kimbrel. Rooker then stepped up with a crucial hit, driving in the go-ahead run with a two-out line drive into left field off Jacob Webb (0-1).
The Athletics celebrated the unexpected victory with high energy in the clubhouse, buoyed by the comeback against one of the top teams in the American League.
Starter Ross Stripling noted the team’s excitement, emphasizing the importance of the win against a tough opponent. Despite trailing at times, Oakland showed resilience and gained momentum, building confidence as they continue their season.
Stripling pitched solidly, allowing two runs and six hits over 5 2/3 innings. Although he left the game with Oakland behind, the team rallied in the ninth inning to prevent him from getting his sixth loss of the season.
Mitch Spence (2-1) pitched three innings without allowing a hit, and Mason Miller secured his seventh save by getting three outs. When Miller struck out Gunnar Henderson with a fastball clocked at 101.8 mph and a runner on third, he celebrated by punching the air.
“We seized the opportunity when Kimbrel gave us a chance, and we managed to secure a significant win here in Baltimore, which many didn’t expect,” Stripling commented.
Shea Langeliers hit a home run in the first inning and later scored in the 10th for the A’s, who are now 2-15 when trailing after eight innings.
In the ninth inning for Oakland, Abraham Toro doubled to bring home the tying run. However, JJ Bleday was caught by Kimbrel while attempting to score on a wild pitch.
Despite Kimbrel issuing two more walks in the inning to load the bases with one out, Keegan Akin managed to escape the situation. This marked Kimbrel’s second blown save in nine opportunities this season, having previously matched John Franco for sixth all-time with his 424th save in his last appearance.
