On Wednesday the Angels defeated the Seattle Mariners 4-2. Jeff Mathis had another strong showing with the bat, as did Howie Kendrick who connected for a booming homer. Mike Scioscia had a lot of the regulars in the lineup for the first time this spring including Juan Rivera & Erick Aybar.
Shane Loux pitched 2 innings while walking two batters, which he was not happy about.
Lyle Spencer takes a look at the AL West and how it wont be as easy for the Angels like it was in 2008.
My take. I am very concerned about the Angels chances this season to win their division. While I am pleased they addressed the lack of a left handed bat in the lineup by adding Bobby Abreu, I am not at all sold on the infield. As I pointed out yesterday, the club lacks power, especially if they plan on using Figgins, Aybar and Kendrick instead of finding a spot for Brandon Wood at either third or preferably short. If Kendry Morales doesn't get off to a fast start and keep it up all season the Angels will suffer with Robb Quinlan as the fall back first-baseman. In my opinion it wouldn't be the worst idea in the world to give Richie Sexson a look, while he had a down year in 08 he still crushed left handers, something Morales has struggled with.
The OC Register's Bill Plunkett delves further into the Angels plate disciple issues with Mike Scioscia.
For those of you who have problems receiving AM830 KLAA there is speculation that KFWB may start simulcasting Angel games.
Injury Updates
Scioscia thinks it's a long shot for Mike Napoli to be ready to catch on opening day.
"We'll have an idea over the next few weeks whether [opening day] is a probability or a longshot," One thing is certain: Out of the chute, playing every day might be a bit of a stretch. We'll have to see where his stamina is."
Torii Hunter was held out the game vs Seattle due to tight hamstring.
Ervin Santana will have his first start pushed back with to a tightness in his throwing arm.
Hank Conger has extended his long toss program to 200 feet.
Today the Angels will face the San Francisco Giants at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
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