After struggling is high-leverage spots over the course of the season, Luis Medina is showing glimpses of what he could become in 2027.
The Athletics took some steps forward on Thursday night, defeating the Seattle Mariners 7-4 in the first of a four-game series. While they didn't produce a big inning of offense, they managed to score across six frames in the win, adding single runs in the eighth and ninth.
After Jack Perkins gave up three runs in the first inning, Seattle would threaten but wouldn't score in the second and third. By that time, Perkins was already at 86 pitches (49 strikes), and manager Mark Kotsay turned to the bullpen.
Scott Blewett tossed a scoreless fourth and fifth innings, collecting four strikeouts, and lowering his ERA with the A's to 2.70 across 23 ⅓ innings. He's been a stabilizing force in the A's bullpen and could be locking in a role for himself next season.
Newer bullpen addition Chris Roycroft took the sixth and the first two batters he faced doubled and singled, which led to Seattle scoring a run to make it 5-4 on a ground out. Roycroft locked in and got the next two batters before beginning the seventh as well. He'd notch another two outs, but with two on, Luis Medina would be called upon for the final out.
Medina got Randy Arozarena swinging on a slider that was low and wide for strike three, ending the threat. After the A's scored their sixth run in the eighth, Medina was back on the bump for the bottom of the inning after sitting. This has been a spot where he's struggled a decent amount all year.
After striking out Dominic Canzone, Julío Rodríguez walked, then stole second base. Cal Raleigh would also walk, putting runners at first and second with one out. This would typically be where Medina would allow that big hit and have to get lifted, but this time he got Josh Naylor to fly out to left, and Cole Young to strike out on a changeup in the dirt.
That is a step that the A's will be looking for Medina to take consistently next season, and Kotsay leaving him in with the game on the line was a big show of trust.
Medina hadn't pitched since 2024 due to Tommy John surgery coming into this year, and because he is out of options, he was thrust right into a role on the club. He'd never been a regular relief pitcher, so he has not only had plenty to learn this season, but he's taking those steps toward becoming a key late-inning arm for 2027.
Hogan Harris would come in to lock down the save for his 14th of the season, and the A's have won two games in a row for the fourth time since the beginning of July. They'll be looking for their third straight win on Friday night for the first time since they were in Las Vegas on June 13, when they won their fourth in a row.
Kade Morris will be getting that start with J.T. Ginn still dealing with some fatigue and soreness. This will be the first start for Morris with the A's since his debut in Houston on June 6.
