After sweeping the Angels, the Athletics open a four-game season-ending series against Houston, aiming to keep the Astros out of the playoffs. Mason Barnett makes his final start against Peter Lambert; Barnett is 1-4 with a 7.16 ERA, while Lambert is 8-10 with a 3.70 ERA.
Barnett has gone 0-4 with a 10.27 ERA and 2.20 WHIP over his last seven appearances. In his most recent start, he allowed three runs, seven hits and four walks in 3 1/3 innings. If he struggles, the Athletics may turn to their bullpen early for a third straight game. Lambert has gone seven starts without a win, but allowed two runs in 5 1/3 innings against Atlanta last time out.
The Athletics are using the same lineup that scored 16 runs against the Angels over two games. Shea Langeliers is limited to designated hitter duties, and Jonah Heim may catch the final four games if injured backup Brian Serven cannot recover. Houston rookie Lucas Spence is starting in center field.
