(Oakland) JJ Bleday drove in two runs and the Oakland portion of Athletics history ended with the crowd favorites winning 3-2 against the Texas Rangers on Thursday.
Bleday produced his team’s first run with an option, then the third with a single to left field.
Shea Langeliers provided a sacrifice fly and the A’s held off the Rangers’ two runs, scored in the sixth inning.
A center fielder, Bleday dove to his right to catch a hit from Carson Kelly in the seventh.
PHOTO GODOFREDO A. VÁSQUEZ, ASSOCIATED PRESS
JJ Bleday dives to catch a ball.
Three innings earlier, second baseman Zack Gelof had also made a nice play on defense, jumping to his left to deprive Nathaniel Lowe of a hit.
The match was presented in front of a packed house of 46,889 people.
It was the Athletics’ final game at the Coliseum, their home since 1968.
They will settle in Sacramento for at least three years, while they build a new stadium in Las Vegas.
After the game, manager Mark Kotsay took the microphone to offer thanks.
“To the people on our staff who have dedicated their lives to the Oakland A’s, especially those who will not remain with us, I am eternally grateful,” Kotsay said. I will never forget you. »
Kotsay concluded his words by leading the crowd to chant one last time, “Let’s go Oakland!” »
Former star left-hander of the A’s, Barry Zito delivered a warmly acclaimed version of the American national anthem.
The ceremonial throws were made by two other big names in the club’s history, Rickey Henderson and Dave Stewart.
JT Ginn (1-1) allowed two runs and five hits in five and a third innings.
Three relievers did not give a run in three and two-thirds innings.
Mason Miller then got the final four outs, earning a 28e rescue.
“It’s an honor that I think any pitcher would want,” Miller said of being the last to take the mound at the Coliseum. No matter what happens in my career, there will always be a special place in my heart for that moment. »
He has converted all 16 of his save opportunities since June 18.
The last out was a grounder to third base by Travis Jankowski.
Kumar Rocker (0-2) allowed three runs and seven hits in four and two-thirds innings.