OAKLAND -- A rough beginning doomed the A's in their return home, a lifeless performance against the Mariners unfolding in front of the Coliseum crowd on Thursday night.
Oakland's 7-1 loss brought only four hits and two too many misplays, by the man who rarely makes them.
Matt Chapman's blundering defense led to three unearned runs in a five-run first inning for the Mariners, who moved within 4 1/2 games of the A's for the second American League Wild Card spot following the opener of a crucial four-game set.