Locked On A's - Daily Podcast On The Athletics

The A’s just delivered their most complete performance of the 2025 season, steamrolling the White Sox 8-0 to secure a sweep in Chicago. It was loud, it was early, and it was often—Lawrence Butler and Jacob Wilson doubled on the first two pitches of the game to put the A’s on top before the White Sox even knew what hit them. Butler, aka The Law Dog, wasn’t done—he crushed a solo homer in the fifth to kick off a home run parade. JJ Bleday mashed a two-run shot in the sixth, Tyler Soderstrom hit his MLB-leading ninth homer in the seventh, and Brent Rooker capped things off with a bomb in the ninth. On the mound, JP Sears shoved—six shutout innings, just three hits, total control. But don’t get too comfy. As sweet as the Chicago sweep was, the real measuring stick comes this weekend in Milwaukee. The A’s are hot, riding high, and clicking on all cylinders—but the Brewers aren’t pushovers. It’s a clash of momentum and legitimacy. Can the A’s prove they’re more than just early-season darlings? Locked On A’s host Booney teams up with Locked On Brewers host Chuck Friemund for a preview of the showdown, diving into what this series means for both clubs. Buckle up—this could be a statement series.

The A’s just keep hanging around, don’t they? A Gritty win in Chicago tonight. Today on Locked on A’s! Two straight wins in Chicago, and while it wasn’t the cleanest baseball you’ll ever see, it was the kind of win that good teams find a way to get. Tonight had a little bit of everything—clutch hitting, solid pitching, and a bullpen that somehow, someway, managed to hold it together until the ninth, when the grim reaper known as Mason Miller slammed the door. We’ve got to talk about JJ Bleday. The guy came into this one ice cold, but tonight? He looked like a dude on a mission. Three hits, a double, a game-tying RBI, and one of the best catches you’ll see all week—saving two runs in center field. That’s the kind of all-around performance that can spark a turnaround, both for Bleday and for a team that refuses to go quietly. Plus, Gio Urshela, out of nowhere, with the swing that changed the game. We’ll also dig into Osvaldo Bido’s outing—calm, composed, exactly what you needed from your starter—and break down how the bullpen managed to keep the Sox off the board despite some high-wire moments. And yeah, we’re talking Mason Miller. Again. Because how can you not? Stick around—this is Locked On A’s, where we don’t just recap wins, we celebrate the fight.

Tyler Soderstrom is HIM. The 22-year-old first baseman didn't just show up to Guaranteed Rate Field—he owned the place. Soderstrom unloaded two three-run nukes in a 12-3 demolition of the White Sox, giving him a league-leading eight home runs on the year. Not Aaron Judge. Not Mike Trout. Not Shohei Ohtani. Tyler freaking Soderstrom is sitting on top of the MLB home run leaderboard. The A’s jumped all over Chicago pitching like it stole something, piling up 12 runs and leaving no doubt who the hotter team was. In this episode of Locked On A’s, we break down Soderstrom’s absolute tear and what it means for a franchise that's suddenly not just scrappy—they’re dangerous. We’re talking statement wins, big bats, and the kind of swagger that makes you believe this team isn't just punching up—they're looking to take over. We also look at what’s fueling this offensive surge, spotlight other breakout performances, and ask the question nobody else seems ready to: Is this A’s team for real? Spoiler alert—hell yes, they are.

There have been plenty of surprises to start the season and the storylines are starting to form. Who has had the best start to the season and who needs to turn things around? The experts from the Locked On Podcast Network bring you their way too early season MVPs and a top 5 Power Rankings! All that and more on this week’s MLB SQUAD Show! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. PrizePicks Download the app and use code lockedonnfl to win $50 instantly when you play $5. You don't even need to win to receive your $50 bonus, it's guaranteed! Prizepicks. Run Your Game. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB Supply House Join the TradeMaster program today at SupplyHouse.com/TM and start ordering plumbing, HVAC, and electrical supplies with just a few clicks. Plus, use promo code S-H-5 for 5% off your first order. That’s SupplyHouse.com! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The future of the A’s doesn’t start in Las Vegas — it starts with the crack of the bat in Stockton and the snap of the mitt in Lansing. In this loaded episode, we’re joined by two of the best voices in the minors: Jesse Goldberg-Strassler, the broadcaster for the High-A Lansing Lugnuts, and Tim Fitzgerald, the man behind the mic for the Low-A Stockton Ports. These guys aren’t just calling games — they’re narrating the rise of the next generation of A’s stars. From Rodney Green Jr.’s electric tools to Tommy “Tanks” White’s raw power, Jesse gives us the scoop on the future faces of the franchise. Then Tim tags in to spotlight names like Tzu-Chen Sha and Myles Naylor — prospects flying under the radar now, but not for long. This isn’t just a farm system check-in. It’s a full-on scouting report for 2028, when the A’s are scheduled to hit the Vegas Strip with a stacked roster of homegrown talent. You’ll hear why these players matter, how close they are to making noise, and what their rise means for the A’s long-term plan. If you're tired of the same recycled stadium debate, this episode is your antidote — we’re talking future stars, not future blueprints. Get locked in.

The A's are in Chicago to face off against the White Sox in a battle between two teams trying to find something to feel good about. In this Locked On crossover, we team up with Todd Welter of Locked On White Sox to preview the upcoming three-game set between the struggling squads. We break down which team is in worse shape right now, why both fanbases are feeling a little hopeless (and maybe a little angry), and which players still give us a reason to tune in every night. There's a lot of pain here—but also a little pride. This one’s for the die-hards still showing up. We also get into the potential silver linings for each franchise: for the A's, a wave of young talent and sneaky-competitive energy; for the Sox, a few veterans looking to rediscover their form and some flashes of life from the farm system. Can either team get on track this week? Is this a "get right" series or a rock bottom showdown? Either way, someone’s gotta win. Maybe.

In this no-punches-pulled episode, we tackle the raw truth behind the outrage over the Oakland A’s relocation—and spoiler alert: it’s not really about Oakland. It’s about class warfare in 2025 form, where the battlefield isn’t the Coliseum but the billionaire class and those who resent them. The real villain of this saga isn’t John Fisher the man, but John Fisher the symbol—of unchecked wealth, of power without accountability, of decisions made from penthouses while regular folks struggle to cover rent. We dig into why this story is more than just a baseball relocation and explore how America's messy class structure fuels the venom. This isn’t a city-versus-owner tale—it’s a society-versus-status drama dressed up in green and gold. But then we flip the mirror back on the fanbase itself. Because when the Oakland Ballers, a fledgling indie team trying to keep pro baseball alive in the East Bay, came under fire for real safety and housing issues—where was the outrage then? Crickets. Not a peep from the same crowd that lights their torches anytime Fisher’s name is mentioned. That selective anger tells a bigger story about performative loyalty and misdirected resentment. We call out the hypocrisy, lay bare the facts, and challenge the so-called defenders of Oakland to examine what they’re really fighting for. This episode is for the fans who’ve been there through thick and thin, and a wake-up call for those just looking for a villain to boo.

Previewing A’s vs. Mets Series Locked on Mets Host Ryan Finkelstein On today’s episode of Locked On A’s, Ryan Finkelstein, host of Locked On Mets, joins the show to preview this weekend’s series between the New York Mets and the A’s in Sacramento. We break down what’s gone right for the Mets so far this season, including their pitching staff, the off-season signing of Juan Soto and re-signing of Pete Alonso, and how the vibes in Queens have shifted with the expectations. Ryan gives the inside scoop on what A’s fans can expect from this Mets squad. We talk matchups, players to watch, and why this series might just be the moment national media starts waking up to what’s brewing in Sacramento.

Nick Kurtz is smashing Triple-A pitching like a big-leaguer stuck in the minors, and after torching the PCL for a .386 average with six bombs in nine games, the question isn't if he should be called up; it's why the hell not? On today’s episode of Locked On A’s, we break down the Kurtz Conundrum: what roster dominos need to fall, who might be out of a job, and why getting Kurtz to Sacramento, if we’re being technical, isn’t as simple as it sounds. DFA Pereda? Cut Seth Brown? Flip Miguel Andújar for pitching? The A’s front office has decisions to make, and we walk through every scenario like we’re sitting in David Forst’s chair. We also dive into the A’s recent series against the Padres, where the team dropped two of three and looked completely lifeless in the rubber match. The heart of the lineup has gone missing, the “home” crowd in Sacramento is anything but, and the offense managed just two hits in a 2-1 loss that felt like a gut punch. But hey, the bullpen showed up, and Jacob Wilson extended his hitting streak to 14. With the Mets coming to town and a brutal schedule ahead, the A’s need answers fast—and Nick Kurtz might just be one of them.

The 2025 MLB Season is fresh and new and the storylines are already forming. Hot starts, cold starts, torpedo bats, juiced balls and lots more! The experts from the Locked On MLB network bring you their thoughts on the early season so far. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Wonderful Pistachios Looking for a snack that’s both delicious and nutritious? Get snackin’ and get crackin’ with the snack that packs a protein punch. Visit WonderfulPistachios.com to learn more. Just Ingredients Visit JustIngredients.us and use code LOCKEDONMLB for 20% off your order! And for more wellness tips, follow @just.ingredients on Instagram. Supply House Join the TradeMaster program today at SupplyHouse.com/TM and start ordering plumbing, HVAC, and electrical supplies with just a few clicks. Plus, use promo code S-H-5 for 5% off your first order. That’s SupplyHouse.com! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONMLB at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

SPECIAL GUEST MATT GEORGE FROM LOCKED ON KINGS. The A’s are back home—or at least, their temporary home in Sacramento—for a six-game stretch against two of the best teams in baseball: the San Diego Padres and the New York Mets. But after getting swept by the Cubs in their first series at Sutter Health Park, questions are already swirling. On this episode, I break down what I saw firsthand during those first two games, and it wasn’t just about the box score. The energy was flat, the crowd was disinterested, and the entire vibe felt like a team in limbo, not one embracing a fresh start. Sacramento, a city known for passionate sports fans, didn’t exactly roll out the red carpet—and that disconnect is impossible to ignore. Joining me is Matt George of ABC 10 Sacramento, who’s been reporting from Sutter Health and watching this all unfold. We dive into whether the media is fueling the negative narrative—or just calling it like it is. Are the real baseball fans getting cheated out of a true big-league experience, or is this criticism of the A’s relocation chaos totally fair? It’s a brutally honest conversation about what happens when a team has no identity, no clear direction, and no real home. And hey, maybe the A’s come out swinging this week and flip the script. Or maybe… this story goes a lot deeper than just a bad opening series.

Locked on Padres Host Javier Reyes Joins us as we preview the series between the Padres and A’s. The A’s are riding high after taking two of three in Colorado—yes, even Coors Field couldn’t slow down this team’s momentum. Now, they technically return home, though the vibe still feels more like a road trip with better laundry access. Waiting for them? One of baseball’s most stacked squads: the San Diego Padres. Loaded with star power and payroll, the Padres are a measuring stick for anyone trying to prove they belong. So we brought in a guest who knows them inside and out—Javier Reyes, host of Locked On Padres—for a coast-to-coast showdown of insight and smack talk. In this episode of Locked On A’s, we break down what to expect in this upcoming series, from key matchups to which team has more to prove. Can the Green and Gold keep their bats hot and make another statement against a National League powerhouse? Or will the Padres’ star-studded lineup put the brakes on the A’s momentum? Either way, it’s a heavyweight clash with real litmus test energy, and we’ve got you covered from first pitch to final out.

The A’s head to the Mile High City for a showdown with the struggling Colorado Rockies, and we’ve got Locked On Rockies host Paul Holden joining the show to break it all down! Both teams have stumbled out of the gate to start the season, but something’s got to give in this series. Can the A’s take advantage of Coors Field’s thin air and finally get the bats going? Or will the Rockies use home-field advantage to pile on the misery? We talk matchups, key players to watch, and what each team needs to do to come away with a much-needed series win. Paul and I also dive into the bigger picture—who’s in worse shape long-term, the A’s or the Rockies? We debate which fanbase should be more frustrated, how these teams can turn things around, and whether this series is the spark that finally gets one of them back on track. Plus, we make some bold predictions for the series, because let’s be honest—someone has to win these games!

The A’s have officially started their new chapter in Sacramento, but does it feel right? On today’s episode of Locked On A’s, we dive deep into the heated debate: Should the A’s ever return to Oakland, or is Sacramento the better fit? This episode unpacks every angle of the A’s relocation saga, from ownership drama to fan reactions and political failures. Plus, we break down the opening series at Sutter Health Park—was the atmosphere electric or just plain awkward? And, of course, we analyze John Fisher’s rare media appearance, his baffling statements, and what it all means for the franchise’s future. But that’s not all! I take you inside my personal Opening Night experience—raw, unfiltered, and packed with observations you won’t hear anywhere else. From the eerie quiet of Old Town Sacramento to the surreal sight of an A’s team refusing to embrace their temporary home, we’re covering it all. Was the 18–3 blowout just a bad start, or does it expose deeper problems? And what’s next as the A’s head to Colorado? Get ready for strong opinions, hard truths, and the most passionate A’s talk you’ll find anywhere. Subscribe now and join the debate!

The A’s wrapped up their three-game series against the Cubs at Sutter Health Park, and, well, it wasn’t pretty. Chicago completed the sweep with a dominant 10-2 win, outscoring Oakland 35-9 over the series—setting a franchise record for most runs allowed in the first three home games of a season. Seiya Suzuki absolutely torched A’s pitching, launching two home runs and driving in five runs by himself. Brent Rooker provided the only real highlight with a two-run homer, but beyond that, the A’s lineup looked lifeless once again. The pitching struggled, the defense was sloppy, and the offense couldn’t capitalize on rare opportunities. It’s hard to sugarcoat this one—the A’s were completely outclassed. But the disaster on the field wasn’t the only storyline. A’s owner John Fisher made a rare public appearance, speaking to reporters from atop the team’s temporary clubhouse. His message? That playing in a 14,000-seat minor league park is a “positive, intimate” experience and that slapping a Las Vegas patch on the jerseys while refusing to acknowledge Sacramento’s name somehow makes sense. Spoiler: It doesn’t. Fisher’s attempt at optimism fell flat as the team’s uncertain future continues to alienate fans. Attendance numbers dropped sharply after Opening Day, and if the product on the field doesn’t improve, it’s hard to see how this “temporary” situation doesn’t become an even bigger embarrassment. Fisher insists this is all about building long-term success, but right now? It feels like the A’s are stuck in quicksand—with no lifeline in sight.

The A’s are on trial, and our guest is here to lay down the law. Russell Christian, host of THE CASE FOR: A BASEBALL HALL OF FAME PODCAST, joins the show to bring his legal mind to the world of baseball. We’re breaking down the biggest Hall of Fame debates—who deserves a plaque in Cooperstown, who’s been unfairly left out, and which players should never get a sniff of enshrinement. With a mix of hard facts, deep analysis, and some courtroom-style arguments, Russell makes his case for and against some of the game’s most polarizing Hall of Fame candidates. But the real trial? The A’s move to Las Vegas. As an Atlanta native now living in Vegas, Russell has a unique perspective on whether this relocation is a home run or a massive mistake. Does the move make sense for the franchise, or is it a betrayal of A’s fans who have stuck it out through thick and thin? We’re weighing the evidence, cross-examining the details, and handing down our verdict on the future of the A’s. Court is in session—let’s get into it.

Baseball is back, and the A’s are making their long-awaited Sacramento debut! In this episode, we dive into the electric atmosphere surrounding Opening Night at Sutter Health Park, where fans will be treated to a Rickey Henderson tribute, live art, military flyovers, and much more. The A’s are pulling out all the stops to make this a night to remember, and I’ll be there to soak in every moment. Plus, after splitting the season-opening series in Seattle, are the A’s right where they need to be, or did they leave something on the table? We break down the highs and lows from the Mariners series, including Tyler Soderstrom’s power surge, Jeffrey Springs’ dominant return, and Mason Miller’s continued brilliance. But not everything was sunshine and rally towels—Lawrence Butler’s frustrations in Seattle raise some concerns, and JP Sears learned the hard way why you don’t make mistakes to Julio Rodríguez. With the A’s set to begin their Sacramento era, we look at what this means for the team, the fans, and the road ahead. Strap in; it’s going to be a wild ride!

The A’s are on the verge of a statement series win in Seattle, holding a 2-1 lead as they head into the Game 4 finale against the Mariners. Can they take three of four to open the season with a bang? We break down the dominant starting pitching that has fueled this series—Severino, Springs, and Bido combining for just one earned run in 17 innings—and what the A’s need to do to finish the job. Plus, we take a deep dive into Mariners starter Bryan Woo, his deceptive arsenal, and why cracking his code could be the key to an Oakland victory. With the home opener against the Cubs looming, the A’s have a chance to build early-season momentum and prove they’re no pushover in 2025. We analyze the biggest storylines from this series, highlight the key performances that have put the A’s in position to win, and discuss what’s at stake in this crucial early-season showdown. Can the A’s close it out and send a message to the rest of the league? Let’s break it all down on this episode of Locked on A’s!

The A’s went into Seattle and showed exactly why this team refuses to roll over. Osvaldo Bido battled through some early turbulence, but once he settled in, it was lights out for the Mariners’ lineup. Shea Langeliers delivered the biggest swing of the night—a no-doubt two-run blast that flipped the game on its head. Brent Rooker, Miguel Andújar, and JJ Bleday all chipped in to keep the offense humming, and the bullpen locked it down late. Mason Miller? Absolute filth in the ninth to secure the 4-2 win. If you’re not buying into this squad yet, what are you even doing? This game was a masterclass in resilience. The Mariners had their chances—Victor Robles was a menace early, and Julio Rodríguez was lurking all night—but the A’s refused to blink. Noah Murdock and Tyler Ferguson delivered in high-leverage spots, and when it came time to seal the deal, Miller was throwing 102 like it was nothing. This win wasn’t just another W—it was a statement. The A’s aren’t here to play nice; they’re here to wreck dreams. And if Seattle thought this series would be a cakewalk, well… they just got their wake-up call.

The A’s stormed into Seattle and delivered a statement win, shutting out the Mariners 7-0 behind a dominant performance from Jeffrey Springs. Springs was untouchable, carving through Seattle’s lineup with ease while Brent Rooker and Max Muncy provided the fireworks at the plate. JJ Bleday’s clutch defense saved a critical run, and the A’s offense exploded late to put the game out of reach. Was this a one-night fluke, or has the A’s finally figured out how to take down their AL West rivals? We break down every key moment, from Springs’ brilliance to Muncy’s moonshot, and set the stage for tonight’s rematch against Bryce Miller. Plus, the Las Vegas Aviators kicked off their season with an electrifying home opener, and we’ve got all the details from their showdown with the Reno Aces. Darell Hernaiz set the tone with a first-inning blast, JT Ginn dominated on the mound, and Esteury Ruiz showed off his elite speed in a thrilling win. We’ll dive into the standout performances, what this means for the A’s pipeline, and why Aviators fans should be hyped for the season ahead.