SEATTLE -- Despite being shut out on two hits in a 4-0 loss to the Mariners on Sunday in the A's final game before the All-Star break, Oakland finished the first half with optimism for the second half.
Matt Chapman's highlight play the second inning is one reason why, as he ranged far to his right and made a backhand play on Nelson Cruz's ground ball, then throwing him out at first.
The third baseman said the team is gearing toward improving its defense moving forward.
"We're starting to get some athletic guys, whether it's Chapman or Marcus [Semien] back in here," manager Bob Melvin said.