A's Enter 2026 With Best Playoff Odds in Years
Sacramento-era Athletics carry genuine offensive optimism into 2026, though pitching depth remains a concern for the rebuilding club.
The Athletics posted a 76-86 record in 2025 but entered 2026 with 21.4% playoff odds, their strongest outlook in several seasons. The team is leaning on a young offensive core headlined by Nick Kurtz, Shea Langeliers, Brent Rooker, Tyler Soderstrom, and Jacob Wilson. Oakland also acquired Jeff McNeil over the offseason, a notable shift from their typical salary-dump posture. The club's path to competitiveness hinges on generating enough offense to offset a thin pitching staff.
More on the Athletics wire.
Shea Langeliers Out for Season With Torn Meniscus
The A's All-Star catcher is headed for surgery, ending a strong campaign in which he hit .263 with 23 home runs and 51 RBIs.
Langeliers Headed for Knee Surgery, Season Likely Over
The A's starting catcher will undergo meniscus repair on his right knee, with no timeline given but a season-ending outcome considered likely.
A's DFA Geoff Hartlieb After Acquiring Scott Blewett
Oakland clears a 40-man roster spot by designating reliever Geoff Hartlieb, who posted a 6.08 ERA in 13.1 innings this season.
Langeliers Torn Meniscus Could End His Season
The Athletics' All-Star catcher suffered a torn right knee meniscus on the basepaths and faces a potential season-ending injury.
Langeliers injury could sideline him for remainder of 2026 season
The Athletics catcher and top trade target may be lost for the season, complicating Oakland's deadline leverage heading into next week.
A's Enter 2026 With Best Playoff Odds in Years
Sacramento-era Athletics carry genuine offensive optimism into 2026, though pitching depth remains a question mark for the rebuilding club.