OAKLAND -- The A's defense betrayed them on Saturday afternoon, largely contributing to an 8-3 loss at the hands of the Angels, who have claimed two of the first three matchups of this four-game opening set at the Coliseum.
Right-hander Daniel Mengden had to shoulder the load, pitching better than his final line would indicate: six runs (five earned) in 5 2/3 innings. He struck out five and issued his lone walk in the sixth; A's starters began the season going 18 1/3 innings without a free pass.
Mengden's efforts were overshadowed by misplays behind him, though, and he was forced to work overtime.