Tulsa Drillers in playoff race after trade deadline roster changes

The Tulsa Drillers return to ONEOK Field on Tuesday, August 12, in the middle of a Texas League playoff race with a month left in the regular season.

President and General Manager Mike Melega said the team has recovered from a slow first half thanks to strong pitching and timely roster changes. Tulsa is tied with Arkansas for the second-half playoff spot, behind first-half winner Springfield.

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Strong pitching led turnaround

The starting rotation, anchored by top Dodgers prospect Jackson Ferris, has helped keep games close. Melega said the bullpen has turned from a weakness into a strength, allowing just one run over 20 innings in a recent series win over Springfield.

New talent from the MLB trade deadline

The MLB trade deadline brought two new outfielders: James Tibbs III, last year’s 13th overall draft pick, and Oklahoma State product Zach Ehrhardt. Both joined the Drillers last week after being acquired in the Dodgers’ trade of pitcher Dustin May to Boston.

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Melega said the Dodgers’ development system prepares players to reach the majors in Los Angeles or with other clubs. “These guys are highly motivated every day,” he said, pointing to former Drillers who became MLB regulars after trades.

Remaining schedule and key matchups

Tulsa’s schedule includes 12 games against last-place Corpus Christi in the coming weeks, as well as late-season matchups with Springfield and Midland.

The upcoming six-game homestand features $2 Tuesday, “Sitcom Night” with Seinfeld’s Kenny Bania, back-to-back fireworks Friday and Saturday, and Lou Gehrig’s Disease Awareness Night. Tickets are available on the Tulsa Drillers' official website.