Olivares Wins A’s Debut, 5-1

Omar Olivares made a favorable impression on his new teammates Saturday.

Olivares, acquired from the Angels on Thursday, pitched seven strong innings in his debut for the Oakland Athletics and Eric Chavez and John Jaha homered as the A’s beat the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, 5-1.

Ending a personal three-game losing streak, Olivares (9-9) did not allow an earned run, giving up four hits and six walks. He struck out three as the A’s won their fifth consecutive home game.

“He did outstanding,” Chavez said. “He walked a few guys, but he backed that up by throwing a couple of double-play balls. I’m very impressed with him.”

Olivares gave up six earned runs and 10 hits in 4 2/3 innings against Tampa Bay in his last outing with the Angels on Monday.

“I was more consistent in hitting my spots this time,” he said. “Coming here, it’s more exciting because we’re playing for something.”

Olivares did complain of a slight pinch in his right leg, but said he stretched it out by the fourth inning and “started pounding the strike zone.”

Doug Jones got his fifth save.

Tampa Bay’s Rolando Arrojo (2-7) gave up four runs--three earned--and four hits in seven innings. He struck out five and walked five. The Devil Rays have lost eight of their last 10 games.

Wade Boggs went 0 for 2 with two walks for the Devil Rays and is eight hits shy of 3,000.