The A's aim to avoid a sweep by the Blue Jays on July 13, 2025, as star 2B Zack Gelof returns from injury. Can his bat spark a needed win for Oakland?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
After a gut-wrenching 7-6 loss to the Blue Jays on Saturday, the Oakland Athletics are desperate for a win. As they head into Sunday's matchup at the Coliseum, they're getting a major boost. In the biggest news of the day, star second baseman Zack Gelof has been activated from the 60-day injured list and is set to rejoin the lineup, providing a jolt of energy for a team that desperately needs it.
The return of Zack Gelof from a right hamate injury isn't just a roster move; it's a potential turning point for the team's infield and offensive identity.
It's the news fans have been waiting for. After a long recovery from a right hamate injury, Zack Gelof is officially back. His presence provides an immediate upgrade both defensively at second base and in the batter's box. To make room, the A's recalled RHP Osvaldo Bido from Las Vegas to add a fresh arm to the bullpen, while optioning RHP Mitch Spence to Triple-A. These moves highlight the constant shuffling by GM David Forst's front office, but Gelof's return is the one that truly moves the needle for the big-league club.
The timing for Gelof's return couldn't be better. The A's are trying to avoid a sweep at the hands of Toronto and snap a painful losing streak. Despite their 39-57 record, the offense has shown signs of life, averaging a respectable 5.3 runs over the last 10 games. The problem, as it has been all season, is preventing runs. Allowing nearly 4.9 runs per game, the pitching and defense must tighten up to support the bats. Today's game is a crucial test of whether they can put together a complete performance and get some revenge for yesterday's narrow defeat.
While today's game feels massive, it's also a single data point in a long rebuilding season. The A's remain in 5th place in the AL West, and manager Mark Kotsay has had the tough job of navigating a season of development and roster turnover. The front office's focus remains on the future, evidenced by the recent minor league signings of RHP Angel Vizcaino and catcher Jean Peralta. These moves won't impact the major league club today, but they represent the slow-and-steady strategy of building organizational depth for the years to come.
Today is more than just another game in a tough season. It's a test of resilience and a glimpse of what could be. With Gelof back in the fold, a win against a tough Blue Jays team could provide a much-needed morale boost and a building block for the rest of this homestand. All eyes are on the Coliseum to see if the A's can turn this spark of good news into a fire.
