Preview for Thursday, September 17, 2026. Schedule and player information can change.
Oakland Athletics at Tampa Bay Rays
This matchup has the Oakland Athletics visiting the Tampa Bay Rays. The listed start is 1:10 PM ET.
Among the listed starters, Drew Rasmussen has the lower ERA in these records. Jeffrey Springs, the listed starter for the Oakland Athletics, has an ERA of 5.93 and a WP-calculated FIP of 6.06 in the available pitching data, covering approximately 135.0 innings. Drew Rasmussen, the listed starter for the Tampa Bay Rays, has an ERA of 2.81 and a WP-calculated FIP of 2.95 in the available pitching data, covering approximately 160.3 innings. These are schedule listings, not independent confirmation of the final starters.
The available team ERA figure is lower for the Tampa Bay Rays. Team statistics for the Oakland Athletics show a WP-estimated wOBA of 0.313, a WP-estimated FIP of 4.95 and an ERA of 5.39. Team statistics for the Tampa Bay Rays show a WP-estimated wOBA of 0.319, a WP-estimated FIP of 4.12 and an ERA of 3.75.
Statistical scope: MLB Stats API; 2026 regular season to date; exact statistical through-date not supplied.
WP selection: Rays -1.5. Confidence: Lock.
This is the selection in the article’s data snapshot. The descriptive statistics above do not establish why the model made that selection.
WP home-run candidate for Athletics: Brian Serven. The selection uses roster and season-stat inputs; it does not establish a confirmed batting lineup or favourable betting odds.
WP home-run candidate for Rays: Victor Mesa Jr.. The selection uses roster and season-stat inputs; it does not establish a confirmed batting lineup or favourable betting odds.
Predictions are uncertain; no outcome is guaranteed. Check the picks page for the latest available selections.