Without Pat Neshek, the Oakland Athletics probably wouldn't have made up a 13-game deficit in the standings, leaving them in position to ace out the Texas Rangers for the A.L. West flag on the last day of the regular season.

Neshek, a veteran submarine relief pitcher, joined the A's on the 3rd of August, and in 24 appearances he posted a sterling 1.37 ERA, winning twice. Tuesday, though, he left the club to be with his wife Stephanee in Florida, where the couple awaited the birth of their son.

Later that evening, their son Gehrig was born -- Pat Neshek is passionate about baseball's history -- and the Athletics beat the Rangers to grab a share of first place.

Wednesday, the A's beat the Rangers again, this time to capture the division title. Just a few hours later, Neshek dispatched the terrible news:

Please pray for my family.Tonight my wife & I lost our first & only son 23 hours after he was born with no explanation.

— Pat Neshek (@PatNeshek) October 4, 2012

News about Neshek's future pitching plans will undoubtedly wait for another day.