ANAHEIM, Calif., Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Jermaine Dye's three-run homer highlighted a four-run third inning and closer Jason Isringhausen struck out three in the ninth Saturday as the Oakland Athletics cruised to their 22nd win in 25 games, a 6-3 triumph over the Anaheim Angels.
Dye, one of the few Athletics struggling at the plate, hammered a 2-2 pitch from Angels starter Scott Schoeneweis over the wall in left-center field for a 4-0 lead. Since being acquired on July 25, Dye has provided much-needed protection for Jason Giambi, driving in 58 runs in 60 games.
Prior to Dye joining the A's, Oakland's cleanup hitters had accounted for just 58 RBI in 104 games.
One of the other areas of concern for manager Art Howe has been the performance of Isringhausen, who has blown nine of 43 save opportunities. But the 29-year-old righthander has been solid since Aug. 26, string together 13 solid outings. On Saturday, he surrendered a leadoff single in the ninth but struck out the next three hitters.
The A's used their bullpen to get through the contest. Fifth starter Erik Hiljus tossed three hitless innings, increasing his chances of earning a postseason roster spot. Luis Vizcaino hurt his chances with a poor performance, allowing three runs and five hits in 1 2/3 innings.
Mike Magnante (3-1) picked up the win with 1 1/3 hitless innings before Chad Harville and Chad Bradford tossed a scoreless inning apiece.
Schoeneweis (10-11) was tagged for six runs and nine hits in seven innings. The talented 28-year-old lefthander finished the season winless in eight starts.
