The Athletics remain in playoff contention as the end of August approaches, considered by some to be a stroke of luck given their payroll and competition. "Part of it is the nature of Oakland's payroll, and part of it is Billy's style," one Major League executive said. "He's not afraid to flip out today's news for tomorrow's news. He got a base hit every time this offseason. It isn't blind luck; there is thought behind it." Oakland is 61-53 entering action on Tuesday, six games behind Texas in the American League West. They are less than a game back in the Wild Card race.