The final 2016 home game for the Oakland Athletics brought a win to avoid the sweep from the Texas Rangers, due to a quality start from rookie right-hander Jharel Cotton. The youngster threw six shutout innings before giving up a home run to Adrian Beltre in the seventh. The Athletics had given Cotton some breathing room with a seven-run second inning. The game would ultimately lead to a much-needed Athletic victory 7-1.
The season coming to a close gives 2017 a brighter outlook for the Athletics with the rookies proving productive. Rookie third-baseman Ryon Healy looks to be a vital part of the Athletics young core since being called up after the All-Star game.