The Tampa Bay Rays come into their August 13, 2025, matchup against the Oakland Athletics in West Sacramento knowing that every game is critical if they want to claw their way back into postseason relevance, and they will rely heavily on right-hander Drew Rasmussen to set the tone. Rasmussen has been one of the most consistent performers in their rotation this season, boasting a 9–5 record and a 2.66 ERA, with his ability to command both sides of the plate and mix in a sharp breaking ball that can keep hitters off balance. Against an Oakland lineup headlined by the powerful rookie Nick Kurtz and supported by sluggers Brent Rooker, Shea Langeliers, and Tyler Soderstrom, Rasmussen’s success will hinge on limiting free passes and keeping the ball in the yard, as the A’s thrive when they can string together power swings in hitter-friendly conditions. Tampa Bay’s offensive strategy will center on wearing down Athletics starter J.T. Ginn, whose 4.39 ERA and tendency to struggle in extended innings present an opportunity to create baserunners and put pressure on Oakland’s defense. The Rays will look to blend their disciplined contact-first approach with aggressive baserunning to push the envelope on extra bases, a tactic that can be particularly effective in Sutter Health Park’s wide outfield.

Defensively, Tampa Bay will need to be as sharp as ever, cutting off balls in the gaps and executing relay throws to prevent extra bases, especially against an Athletics team that can turn momentum quickly with one big swing. Their bullpen remains a dependable late-game asset when entering with a lead, but that makes Rasmussen’s efficiency and durability crucial so the high-leverage arms are available to face Oakland’s middle-order threats in the seventh and eighth innings. Tampa Bay’s road performance against the spread has hovered near .500, but their resilience away from Tropicana Field and ability to play tight, low-mistake baseball gives them a realistic path to success if they control the game’s pace from the outset. The formula for victory will be simple in concept but difficult in execution: dominate the strike zone early, grind out at-bats to force Ginn into stressful pitches, capitalize on scoring chances with runners in scoring position, and hand a lead to the bullpen without allowing the A’s power to swing the game late. If the Rays can execute that blueprint, they stand a strong chance to leave Sacramento with a win that could provide the spark they need for a late-season push.