After being shut out again at Kauffman Stadium in their series opener, the A's look to avoid a third straight defeat Wednesday night against the Royals.
Jeremy Guthrie allowed three hits and struck out eight in seven innings to help Kansas City (50-65) to a 5-0 win over Oakland on Tuesday.
The A's (61-54) are contending for their first postseason spot since 2006, but it's not because of their play at Kauffman Stadium. Oakland has been shut out in all three losses in four games at Kansas City this season, including each of the last two.
Oakland, which has been blanked a major league-leading 14 times in 2012, has not been shut out in three straight road games by the same opponent since May 7-8, 2005-May 12, 2006, at Yankee Stadium.
The A's will get their first look at Kansas City rookie Will Smith (3-4, 5.48 ERA), who gave up two runs in seven innings of an 8-2 win at Baltimore on Thursday. The left-hander is 2-2 with a 3.94 ERA in five starts since being recalled a second time from the minors July 19.
Smith has an 8.10 ERA while losing each of his three home starts.
Oakland counters with Brandon McCarthy (6-3, 2.68), who allowed three solo homers in six innings while not factoring in the decision of a 4-3 loss at Chicago on Friday. It was his first outing since going on the disabled list June 24 with a strained right shoulder.
McCarthy is 1-0 in two starts against the Royals this season, allowing two runs in six innings of each.
Athletics are 5-0 in McCarthys last 5 starts after scoring 2 runs or less in their previous game.
Athletics are 7-1 in McCarthys last 8 starts.
Athletics are 6-1 in McCarthys last 7 starts following a Quality Start in his last appearance.
Athletics are 6-1 in McCarthys last 7 starts with the total set at 7.0-8.5.
Athletics are 6-1 in McCarthys last 7 starts when their opponent allows 2 runs or less in their previous game.
Athletics are 4-1 in McCarthys last 5 road starts.
Listen to me...Will Smith is a comedian, not a pitcher. This kid gets rocked tonight. Oakland has sucked hind tit long enough. This little slump they are in ends tonight. They know they either put up or shut up. I dont usually play games where they team is in a must-win situation but if they allow the Royals to sweep them i would be very surprised. McCarthy steps up and pitches a stellar performance tonight - watch and see. I just hope he gets a little run support. Take the Athletics. Good Luck
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