Athletics vs Giants Picks and Prediction – 5/18/2025

The Bay Area rivalry continues as the Sacramento Athletics visit the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park on Sunday, May 18. This matchup, part of MLB’s inaugural “Rivalry Weekend,” carries added significance with the Athletics’ recent relocation to Sacramento. The Giants, holding a 26–19 record, aim to capitalize on their home advantage against the 22–23 Athletics. First pitch is scheduled for 4:05 PM ET.  Be ready for the baseball season with all of our MLB free picks.

The Athletics send left-hander Jeffrey Springs (5–3, 4.27 ERA) to the mound. Springs has been effective in May, posting a 2–0 record with a 1.50 ERA over three starts. Offensively, shortstop Jacob Wilson leads the team with a .341 batting average, while right fielder Brent Rooker has contributed 10 home runs. Despite these individual performances, the Athletics have struggled recently, dropping six of their last eight games. 

Veteran right-hander Justin Verlander (0–3, 4.31 ERA) takes the hill for the Giants. While seeking his first win of the season, Verlander has a strong track record against the Athletics, boasting a 17–8 record with a 2.60 ERA over 29 career starts. The Giants’ offense is led by Wilmer Flores, who has 10 home runs and 41 RBIs, and Heliot Ramos, batting .289. San Francisco has been formidable at home, with a 14–7 record at Oracle Park.

This game features a compelling pitching duel between Jeffrey Springs and Justin Verlander. While Springs has been sharp recently, Verlander’s experience and historical success against the Athletics give the Giants a slight edge. Considering the Giants’ strong home performance and the Athletics’ recent struggles, expect a close game with the Giants narrowly prevailing. Final Score Prediction, San Francisco Giants win 4-3.