Astros Blowout A’s 13-2

In a lopsided defeat, the Athletics fell 13-2 to the Houston Astros in their final game of the 2026 MLB season. Starting pitcher Jack Perkins struggled early, giving up a run in the first inning and then two more in the second. The Astros capitalized on multiple mistakes by the A’s defense, notably when shortstop Jeremy Peña mishandled a potential double-play grounder, allowing Zack Gelof to score the A’s first run.

Despite a fourth-inning rally, the A’s were unable to close the gap as Yordan Alvarez smashed three home runs for Houston, including a game-high 42nd homer, pushing the Astros' lead to a staggering 11-2. The A’s bullpen continued to struggle, with Yunior Tur and Ronel Blanco looking ineffective against major-league hitters. With a double-digit lead secured, it appeared the Astros had cemented their place in the playoffs, leaving the Athletics to ponder their postseason fate.