Athletics vs Dodgers Preview & Prediction – May 14, 2025
The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to face off against the Oakland Athletics tonight, May 14, 2025, at the iconic Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. This interleague battle promises to be a compelling showdown, especially after Tuesday night’s stunning upset where the Athletics dismantled the Dodgers 11–1 in the series opener. With high stakes and big-name pitchers on the mound, tonight’s game will offer fans a classic MLB matchup with implications for momentum and pride.
Pitching Matchup: Yamamoto vs Hoglund
Yoshinobu Yamamoto will take the hill for the Dodgers. The Japanese sensation is having a standout rookie season, carrying a 4–3 record, 1.80 ERA, and 0.98 WHIP over 45 innings pitched. Yamamoto has 53 strikeouts under his belt, showcasing excellent command and a lethal arsenal of pitches. The Dodgers are relying on him to halt their recent skid and reassert dominance on the mound.
On the other side, Gunnar Hoglund takes the ball for the Athletics. A former first-round pick, Hoglund has impressed in limited action, boasting a 2.38 ERA and 1.06 WHIP through 11.1 innings. With only one walk and one home run allowed, the right-hander has shown poise and control. This will be his biggest test yet, facing a dangerous Dodgers lineup in enemy territory.
Team Stats Comparison
The Dodgers enter the game with a 27–15 record and one of the most productive offenses in baseball. With a team batting average of .265 and a league-leading .463 slugging percentage, they average 5.5 runs per game. Their lineup is stacked with power and consistency, featuring stars like Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Teoscar Hernández.
In contrast, the Athletics are 22–20, an impressive mark for a rebuilding team. Their .263 team batting average and .433 slugging percentage highlight an offense that has steadily improved. Brent Rooker, Tyler Soderstrom, and Jacob Wilson have provided offensive sparks, with Wilson leading the way at a .363 batting average.
However, the biggest discrepancy lies in pitching depth. The Dodgers sport a more reliable bullpen and better overall team ERA (4.00) compared to the Athletics’ 4.73 ERA.
What Happened in Game 1?
Tuesday’s opener was a stunner. The Athletics blitzed the Dodgers with an 11-run offensive outburst, silencing the home crowd and putting pressure on Los Angeles to respond. Despite Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman’s presence in the lineup, the Dodgers managed just one run. Oakland capitalized on pitching mistakes and defensive lapses, giving them confidence heading into Game 2.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Yamamoto vs. Brent Rooker: Rooker’s power can flip a game in one swing. Yamamoto’s precise pitching must neutralize him.
- Ohtani vs. Hoglund: Shohei Ohtani is hitting .302 with 12 home runs and is lethal against young pitchers. Hoglund must avoid leaving pitches over the plate.
- Bullpen Battle: If the game remains close, bullpen depth favors the Dodgers. Look for manager Dave Roberts to go to trusted arms if needed in the late innings.
Betting Preview
- Moneyline: Dodgers -270 | Athletics +220
- Run Line: Dodgers -1.5 (-129)
- Over/Under: 8.5 runs
The odds reflect a heavy lean toward the Dodgers, despite their Game 1 loss. The over/under line suggests oddsmakers are expecting some offense, especially if the Athletics’ bullpen comes into play early.
Prediction: Dodgers Bounce Back
Despite Oakland’s Game 1 dominance, the Dodgers are too talented to drop two in a row at home. Yamamoto has the edge on the mound, and the offense is due for a rebound. Expect the big bats to wake up, and Los Angeles to show why they’re World Series contenders.
Final Score Prediction: Dodgers 5, Athletics 3
Takeaway
This game is more than just a midweek MLB clash — it’s a test of resilience for the Dodgers and a statement opportunity for the Athletics. With top-tier pitching, explosive hitters, and early-season momentum on the line, tonight’s Athletics vs Dodgers matchup is must-watch baseball.
