The A’s, prior to the All-Star break, led the American League in ERA (3.13). Led by youngsters Gio Gonzalez and Trevor Cahill, the Athletics rotation was a bright spot in rather dark and depressing first half of the season. Gonzalez, 25, was even named to his first All-Star appearance this season, furthering the notion that all the A’s had going for them this season was their young pitching.

Oakland’s offense was nonexistent during the first-half, putting together a team .233/.299/.337 line while ranking 28th in baseball in home runs (50). The offense had a difficult time supporting the starting pitching during the first half, and the lack of offensive production early in the season is one reason why the team sits out of contention.

But if you were to take a look at the second-half numbers for the A’s, you’ll see a very different story. In fact, the A’s have reinvented themselves in a way. The strong starting pitching is now nowhere to be found, while the formerly nonexistent offense has suddenly found its identity. (more…)