The A's came into Atlanta following a tough four-game roadtrip in Kansas City hoping to turn things around after losing three of four. The Braves seemed like a perfect target given their recent struggles, but unfortunately the A's offense is struggling a little more than Atlanta is. Now 7-10 since they traded Yoenis Cespedes to the Boston Red Sox, Oakland has been looking everywhere for an offensive spark.
The A's sent out struggling pitcher Jason Hammel for the first game against Braves' starter Alex Wood. Hammel was unable to make it to the fourth inning, giving up five earned runs on the back of three homers. The A's offense sputtered trying to catch up, as Nate Freiman was the only source of runs. The A's droppped the first game 7-2.
In Game Two, the A's started out in an early hole. Ace Sonny Gray gave up two runs in the first inning, and a run in the fourth inning as well. Oakland once again found themselves playing catch-up. Stephen Vogt homered to close the gap to one run in the sixth inning, but the Braves responded with a run of their own. John Jaso hit a solo home run in the eighth inning, but it wasn't enough as the A's fell to the Braves 4-3.
In the final game of the series, Nate Freiman got Oakland out to an early lead by hitting a solo home run in the second inning. The Braves tied it up in the same inning, and then got the better of recent acquisition Jon Lester. Freiman hit another solo home run to respond, but it wasn't enough as the A's fell to Atlanta 4-3.
The A's have now lost five straight games. They have the day off Monday and are looking to right the ship against the New York Mets and division rival Los Angeles Angels this week. The last time they had a slump this season was back in May when they lost four straight games.