MLB 2014 playoffs: Game 162 may not decide everything

Sep 2, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Sonny Gray (54) pitches the ball against the Seattle Mariners during the first inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
American League Wild Card #2

Oakland at Texas
OAK: Sonny Gray (13-10, 3.21) v TEX: Nick Martinez (5-11, 4.61)

Last night, there were numerous tweets suggesting that the Rangers could go with Derek Holland (2-0, 1.31) should this game carry any impact on the playoff picture. Now that this game does, do not be surprised if Holland gets the nod, although earlier today, MLB.com was reflecting Martinez as the Rangers starter. Should Holland get the nod, that could make Oakland’s road tougher. On Sept. 17, Holland limited the A’s to only a run and four hits in 6.1 innings of work.

Los Angeles at Seattle
LAA: Cory Rasmus (3-1, 2.38) v Felix Hernandez (14-6, 2.18)

Two words: King Felix.

The impact:

If the A’s beat the Rangers, they get the #2 slot. A loss in Texas doesn’t take the A’s out, for if Seattle stumbles at home, Oakland still gains the postseason berth. If Oakland loses and the M’s win, yes, a 163rd game will be necessary. But the M’s must take care of business and defeat the Angels. Should that extra game be necessary, Seattle will host the winner-take-all game since they hold the edge in season series (10-9).