World Series Journal: Game Two: Off the Hook

 

Tim Salmon’s clutch home run wins it

Rob Goldman - AngelsWin.com Historical Writer

The 2002 World Series followed the same script as the ALDS and ALCS. We came up short in Game #1, losing a squeaker 4-3, and we responded with a win in Game #2.  The prevailing view on the team was been there, done that. There is no reason to panic. To drive our point home, we came out swinging the sticks like we had in the previous playoff series. The headlines in the Orange County Register read, “Off the Hook.” It was a clever play on my name and the fact that I stepped it up after my poor performance in Game #1.

Game 2 was really a fun game to be a part of…. as a hitter.  In what turned into an offensive battle, both teams combined for 28 hits and 21 runs. The lead went back and forth as both teams battled it out like a great heavyweight fight.  The series really turned on this game. Hitters on both teams flushed out any anxieties they had and settled into offensive juggernauts. Fortunately this was also true for me. After feeling like the goat the night before, a few hits, including as second inning homer, bolstered my confidence once again, putting me in the right frame of mind for the biggest at bat of my life.  With the score tied 9-9 in the bottom of the eighth inning, the table was set for the first of many Angel heroics that would define the series for us.

With Felix Rodriquez on the mound, Adam Kennedy led off the inning by flying out to Lofton. Eckstein followed with a single, bringing the crowd to their feet. While Darin Erstadt is at the plate trying to move Eck into scoring position, I was on-deck doing my best to time Felix Rodriguez’s fastball. The only positive for me in Game 1 was that I had a pretty good at bat of Felix the late in the game when I lined out to right field.  I had finished the night on a pretty good swing and that thought was on my mind as I waited my at bat.

Having the opportunity to see what his fastball looked like, took away any apprehension I might have had at bat. He threw a hard fastball, but his three quarter delivery got behind the ball in just a way that gave me a good look at it when it came into the hitting zone. As I stood in the on deck circle, my mind was locked in on that slot, visualizing that pitch.

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Angels Acquire Zack Greinke for Prospects

 

ANAHEIM, CA – The Angels today acquired RHP Zack Greinke (pronounced ‘GRANKY’) from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for INF Jean Segura, RHP Ariel Pena and RHP Johnny Hellweg.  Today’s announcement was made by General Manager Jerry Dipoto.

Greinke, 28, went 9-3 with a 3.44 ERA (123 IP – 47 ER) in 21 starts this season with Milwaukee.  He spent the 2011 campaign with the Brewers, compiling a 16-6 mark with a 3.83 ERA (171.2 IP – 73 ER) in 28 starts.  The 16 wins matched his career-high set in 2009 with KC when he claimed the American League Cy Young Award.

The Orlando, FL native is currently in his ninth Major League campaign.  The right-hander has averaged 32 starts and 206 IP over the last four full seasons.  His best season came in 2009 when he went 16-8 with six complete games, an A.L-leading 2.16 ERA (229.1 IP – 55 ER) and 242 strikeouts, taking home the A.L. Cy Young Award.  The 2009 all-star is currently in the final year of a four-year contract (2009-12) and owns an all-time record of 85-76 with a 3.79 ERA (1402.2 IP – 590 ER) in 259 games, including 218 starts.

Segura, 22, entered 2012 rated as the organization’s second best prospect by Baseball America. The Dominican Republic native has spent a majority of the season in Double-A Arkansas where he hit .294 (110/374) with 50 runs, seven home runs and 40 RBI in 94 games with the Travelers. The 2012 Future’s Game participant made his Major League debut on Tuesday, going hitless in his only three professional at-bats. Over parts of six minor league seasons (391 G), Segura owns a .310 average with 26 home runs, 203 RBI and 257 runs scored.

Pena, 22, has spent the entire 2012 campaign pitching in Double-A Arkansas, posting a 6-6 record with a 2.99 ERA (114.1 IP – 38 ER) and 111 strikeouts in 19 starts. The 111 punch outs were tied for second in the Texas League while the 2.99 ERA ranked fifth. Over six minor league seasons, the Dominican Republic native owns a 35-21 record with a 3.02 ERA (453.1 IP – 152 ER) and 418 strikeouts. The right-hander entered the 2012 campaign ranked as the ninth best prospect in the Angel organization by Baseball America. 

Hellweg, 23, is in his fifth season in the Angels’ system, pitching the 2012 campaign with the double-A Arkansas Travelers.  In 21 starts, the 6’9”, 210-pounder is 5-10 with one complete game and a 3.38 ERA (119.2 IP – 45 ER).  For 2012, he was named the club’s fourth best prospect by Baseball America.

For fan reaction to this trade, visit our AngelsWin.com forum or the Greinke discussion thread here.

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Delightful Rogue - Bo Belinsky

By Rob Goldman - AngelsWin.com Historical Writer

Angel publicist Irv Kaze knew it was Bo the moment he laid eyes on him—the swagger, the shades, and that slicked backed hair. Bo was easy to spot in a crowd, even at Los Angeles International Airport. It was Belinsky. Had to be. His reputation preceded him. For an entire month, the rookie pitcher had driven management crazy with his outrageous demands, including a hold out for $2,000 more than the standard $6,500 contract for rookies. Hard to believe it, but $2,000 was a lot of money in 1962.

At last Bo had arrived. Kaze didn’t budge from the terminal window, fearing that if he took his eyes off Bo, he just may lose him. He watched as Belinsky disembarked from the plane like a crown prince, and once he was safely inside the gate, the publicist approached him.

“I’m Kaze, welcome to California,” he said with his friendliest smile.

“Christ, I was expecting Autry,” replied Bo.

And with that, the Belinsky era had arrived.

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The TNT Boys of Anaheim, Trout N' Trumbo (v.2)

By Christian Ilten - AngelsWin.com Contributor

There is no doubt, 2 of the main pieces of the future of baseball are play in Anaheim. The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have what people are calling the "TNT" boys, Trout and Trumbo. As of the morning of July 22nd, 2012, listed below are the stats (including sabermetrics) that are notable for both players. Simply enough, the Angels have some very key players in Trout and Trumbo, the TNT boys... Mark Trumbo, born and raised in Southern California, and also grew up an Angels fan, enjoyed hitting 14 Home Runs in the State Farm Home Run Derby, and ended up placing 3rd, while Mike Trout collected a hit in the All Star Game in his Rookie Year, along with a Stolen Base off of R.A. Dickey, the first against him all year. Again, below are listed the stats and sabermetrics for these young phenoms.

Mike Trout:

.357 Batting Average (1st in the American League)

105 Hits, 15 Home Runs, 69 Runs, 47 RBI, and 31 Stolen Bases (leads MLB)

Mark Trumbo:

.303 Batting Average

98 Hits, 27 Home Runs (Tied for 3rd, trails Adam Dunn and Jose Bautista who both have 28),

48 Runs, 66 RBI (Tied for 5th in AL)

Here are the stats known as "sabermetrics", also known as, really, really detailed stats:

Mike Trout:

RC27 (Runs Created per 27 outs): 9.97 (1st in AL, 3rd in MLB)

SecA (Secondary Average- Measure of bases gained on plays such as extra base hits, walks, and stolen bases): .431 (6th in AL, 8th in MLB)

WAR (Wins Above Replacement Player- How many more wins the team can get with him than having someone else out there on the field): 4.8 (1st in AL, only behind Pittsburgh Outfielder Andrew McCutchen in MLB).

Mark Trumbo:

ISOP (Isolated Power, which measures a players raw power [Slugging% minus Batting Average])

WAR (explained above) 3.5 (7th in MLB).

Simply enough, there is a force to be reckoned with. Please enjoy this video, of the TNT boys, our 2nd version! We hope you enjoy!

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Mike Trout is taking MLB by storm

MLB Tonight takes an in-depth look at Mike Trout's first season in the Major League and his relationship with his parents.

Click below to watch this outstanding piece on Mike Trout from our good friends at the MLB Network. 

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Los Angeles Angels Roving Coach Ty Boykin Interviews With AngelsWin.com

There more than one way to make it in baseball. Some do so as players. Others do so as Front Office personnel. Most only do so at lower levels of the organization.

If you have followed the Angels organization long enough, you will remember a player named Ty Boykin. In 1991, he began his career with the Angels as a Minor League outfielder. In 1998, at age 28, he finished his stint as a player, reaching as high as Double-A. But, that did not end his baseball career. In 2000, he began managing with the Angels at Cedar Rapids. Over the next decade he managed at various levels for the Angels, working with many players on the parent Club.

Today, Ty is the Angels Roving Outfield/Baserunning and Hunting instructor. Everyday he works to refine those skills with players throughout the organization. He is making the Major Leagues one player at a time.

Click below to watch our interview with Coach Boykin. He tells us how the Angels develop players at the lowest levels to instill those skills necessary for future success. This is a must-see for any Angels fan.

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Los Angeles Angels Prospect Report

By Scott Stedman - AngelsWin.com Prospect Reporter

Salt Lake Bees - Salt Lake has dropped 7 out of their last 10.  However, catcher Hank Conger has really begun to swing the stick well.  In his last 10 games, Conger is hitting .350 with a .920 OPS in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League.  But his defense behind the plate has remained average at best.  With Scioscia at the helm, I don't think Hank Conger is in the long-term plans.  In the 'pen, Steve Geltz and Jeremy Berg have continued to shine.  The 26-year-old submarine pitcher Berg has a 2.89 ERA in his last 10 appearances with just 5 walks.  When he is on, he has a slider that dives away from righties and a moving fastball.  Steve Geltz has pitched 7 scoreless innings in a row with 4 punch-outs.  Geltz features a mid 90s fastball and is working on keeping the ball down in the zone.  The veteran Greg Smith will start for the Bees tomorrow.

Arkansas Travelers - The Travs' have slowly started to turn it on, winning 5 out of their last 8.  Shortstop Jean Segura has really picked it up, hitting .317 with a .404 OBP in his last 10 games.  More impressively however, is the style in which Segura plays.  You could say he plays "hard" but that doesn't do it justice.  I have yet to see him jog down the line on a routine grounder, and with his speed he usually makes it interesting.  At shortstop, he sacrifices his body regularly.  If the Angels decide to deal Segura at the deadline they better get a hefty return, however I would advise against doing so.  Lefty reliever Drew Taylor has put together 4 great appearances in a row after fixing a mechanical problem.  Overall, the 25-year-old has 39 Ks in 41 innings pitched.  Outfielder Travis Witherspoon is still on the DL with a strained quad.  Johnny Hellweg, who has been brilliant in his last 2 starts will go for Arkansas tomorrow.

Inland Empire 66ers - The 66ers have won 6 out of their last 9 and are beginning to roll.  Third-baseman Kaleb Cowart is still a man-child tearing up A+ ball.  The 20-year-old is hitting .292 with a .940 OPS and as many walks as strikeouts.  His defensive reports have been just as impressive to go along with his extremely strong arm.  Look for Cowart to possibly be atop the list of Angels prospects for the 2013 season.  Outfielder Randal Grichuk is hitting .409 (9-22) in his last 5 games, including his 11th home run.  The 20-year-old former first round pick has + defense in the outfield and can play all 3 positions.  Starting pitcher Nick Maronde has returned from the DL and tossed 12 straight shutout innings, including a 7 inning no-hit performance with 10 Ks on Tuesday.  In 47 innings for the 66ers, Maronde has a 2.11 ERA in a hitter-friendly league.  The former University of Florida closer will turn 23-years-old in September and could see the major leagues next year.  Fabio Martinez who is struggling to throw strikes, will be on the bump Friday. Last years' 1st round pick C.J. Cron leads the 66ers and the entire CAL League in RBI's with 81.

Cedar Rapids Kernels - The Kernels have dropped 5 in a row and 7 of their last 8.  Offensively, 6th-rounder shortstop Eric Stamets is hitting .314 in 118 ABs.  His .377 OBP also shows intrigue.  At the plate, Stamets reminds me of a right-handed Reggie Willits with little pop but perhaps a better hit tool.  The catcher Zach Wright is still having a great year, hitting .312 with a whopping .995 OPS.  He has 1 more BB (16) than he does K (15).  The 22-year-old Wright has the tools to move through the system quickly.  In the bullpen, closer Ty Kelley is still getting the job done.  His 0.91 WHIP and 39 Ks in 43 innings show just how good of a season Kelley is having.  Tomorrow, Austin Wood will toe the slab for Cedar Rapids.

Orem Owlz - The Owlz have a 4 game winning streak and they are being carried by their offense.  Michael Snyder, a 22-year-old third-baseman has been unreal this season.  The 23rd rounder has a .398 average with 1.177 OPS, racking up 78 total bases in just 108 ABs.  As we saw with C.J. Cron and Taylor Lindsey, Snyder could skip Cedar Rapids and head straight to Inland Empire next year.  First baseman Wade Hinkle, a 22-year-old out of Kansas St. University has 6 home runs and 21 BBs in under 100 at-bats in Orem.  In fact, 8 hitters in Orem have an OBP above .400 which is very encouraging.  In the rotation, Gabriel Perez has led the way.  The 21-year-old Dominican righty has a 4.55 ERA and 31 Ks in 30 innings.  He leads the league with 5 wins and is holding batters to a .250 average.

AZL Angels notes: 

- Dominican Shortstop Jose Rondon is still holding his own, hitting .287 with a .789 OPS.  He is just 18-years-old with a great hit tool and developing defense.

- Reliever Eduard Santos has a 1.00 ERA and 17 Ks but he is 22-years-old.
                         
- 20-year-old catcher Sandy Martinez is hitting .313 with a .389 OBP

DSL Angels notes: 

- Outfielder Ayendy Perez has a .413 OBP and a solid hit tool.  Also has 10 stolen bases.  He is 18 years-old.

- Lefty starting pitcher Ivan Melo has a 1.30 ERA with 31 Ks in 35 innings.  He turns 18 today and should see the States next year.
                         
- 17-year-old Reliever Eduardo Paredes has 27 Ks in 23 innings.  He also has a 1.99 ERA.

Prospect of the week: SP Nick Maronde

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Mark Sappington Interviews with AngelsWin.com

When talking baseball with anyone in the Angels organization, you are likely to hear a common refrain: pitching wins championships. So, it's not surprising that the Angels focus heavily on drafting and developing pitching each and every year. Over the course of a season, the parent club goes through many starters and relievers, so, they are constantly in need of talented pitchers.

One of the newest pitchers drafted by the Angels is Mark Sappington. Taken in the 5th round (177th overall), he's a talented righty who can touch the mid-90s. Taken out of Rockhurst University, he is the highest pick taken in the school's history.

AngelsWin.com recently caught up with Mark to find out about his journey to the Angels and about his start to his professional career. Click below to watch it.

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Beer Tasting @ The OC Sports Grill This Sunday (July 22nd, from 2-6 PM)

You know what goes great with summer weekends? BBQ!!!

You know what goes great with BBQ? Beer!!!

You know what goes great with Beer? Angels Baseball!!!

So join AngelsWin.com at the OC Sports Grill this Sunday July 22nd from 2-6pm for a Beer Tasting event like no other! Bootleggers Brewery, Noble Ale Works and Evans Premium Lager Co. will all be onsite with 2-3 micro-crafted masterpieces each for you to sample!  For only $10 you'll get six (6) 10 oz pours!  That's a lot of tasty beer for only $10!!!  Taste them all and let us know which one you like best. The winning brew will become our August Beer of the Month!

And as long as we’re sampling some of the OC’s finest brews, we might as well fire up the back yard BBQ! That’s right, join us for a summer Backyard BBQ where we’ll be serving $5 Burgers and Hot Dogs. And if the mood strikes you, you can wash them down with some $5 24 oz Tallboys and $2 Shots!

Finally … it’s time to Play Ball!!! The Angels vs. Rangers is the ESPN Sunday Night Game of the Week! So walk on over to the Big A to catch the game, or hang out and watch it on one of our three 13 foot projector screens or 50 other HDTVs!

BBQ, Beer and Angels Baseball!!! Isn’t that what summer is all about?!?!

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SUBWAY 2013 Buddy Badge Design Contest

Who: Adults (18 years old +).

What: Enter  your Buddy Badge Design through the SUBWAY Facebook app for a chance to have your design/illustration chosen as the Buddy Badge logo throughout the 2013 season on hats, uniforms, etc. 

When: Now through Noon EST (9 am PST) on Monday, July 23, 2012. The winner will be announced at the Little League World Series.

Why: Because helping Little League Baseball, especially the Challenger Division, is something that all baseball fans should do. SUBWAY is a proud supporter of Little League Baseball since 2005 as part of their efforts to encourage kids and their families to keep active and eat healthy. This year, SUBWAY is showing support for the Challenger Division of Little League, a division of Little League Baseball and Softball for children with physical or mental challenges. A Buddy is another Little Leaguer, friend, sibling, or parent who helps the Challenger teammate play the game. Hence, the foundation for the 2013 Buddy Badge Design program.

How: Log onto the Subway Facebook Page, download the template, and submit your design. It really is that easy.

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MLB Network Chronicles the Rise of Mike Trout on 'MLB Tonight' at 3pm PT

 

Today our good friends at the MLB Network during “MLB Tonight” at 3 p.m. PT, will air a feature on Mike Trout that was taped at Yankee Stadium this past weekend and in his hometown of Millville, New Jersey.

The piece features interviews with Trout and his parents, Jeff and Debbie Trout, discussing his rise from his childhood days in New Jersey to being named an All-Star in his rookie season. The feature includes family photos of Trout as a child, footage of the Little League field where Trout played and his first All-Star uniform.

The feature also includes interviews with Trout’s high school coach, Roy Hallenbeck, Angels teammates Torii Hunter and Mark Trumbo, and Angels manager Mike Scioscia. Speaking about the ability Trout has shown so early in his career, Hunter says, “This guy is like Rickey Henderson in the making.”

If you cannot watch it at the noted time have someone at home set your DVR to record this can't miss episode.

Update

Due to a game on our network going into extra innings, we were unable to air the feature in the 3 p.m. PT hour. Instead, it will now air tomorrow (Thursday) on “MLB Tonight” in the 7 p.m. PT hour, following the MLB Network Showcase game between the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox. The feature will then air again on Friday during “The Rundown,” which begins at 11 a.m. PT.

Would you mind letting your readers know about the time change? We don’t want them to miss it! Please let me know if you have any questions or if I can help in any way.

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Wade Hinkle Interviews with AngelsWin.com

Wade Hinkle is one of the many bright spots in the Orem Owlz's offense. Currently, he leads the club (and is tied for 2nd in the Pioneer League) in HRs. He's 3rd on the club in OBP (5th in the League) at .451. And, he's tied for 5th in the League for OPS.

Drafted out of Kansas State, this lefty first baseman talks with AngelsWin.com about getting drafted, the difference between wood and aluminum bats, starting his professional career, and the origins of his interesting Twitter handle.

Click below to watch & listen to our interview with Wade Hinkle.

Wade Hinkle Interviews with AngelsWin.com from AngelsWin.com on Vimeo.

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Los Angeles Angels Starting Pitcher Dan Haren Proclaims Himself Ready For Texas This Weekend

By George Alfano - Special to The Internet Home for Angels Fans, AngelsWin.com

Haren rehab start with Inland Empire 66ers

SAN BERNARDINO, CA -- For the first time since spring training, Dan Haren isn’t worried about a stiff back hindering his pitching.

Haren threw five innings Monday night during a rehabilitation start, throwing 67 pitches and allowing seven hits and two earned runs. Of the pitches, 44 were for strikes. The 6-foot-5 right-hander struck out two and didn’t walk anyone for the Inland Empire 66ers against the Lake Elsinore Storm, leaving the game with a 3-2 lead.

Inland Empire scored two runs in the bottom of the eighth to earn a 5-4 victory over the Storm.  The 66ers are the Angels’ affiliate in the Advanced Class A California League, while Lake Elsinore is the Cal League affiliate of the San Diego Padres.

“I might feel it a little tomorrow, but I felt good in the fourth and fifth innings,” said Haren, who attended Bishop Amat High School in LaPuente, CA. “We talked about a simulated game, but it is better to play in a real game. My pitches were crisp and I didn’t hold anything back.”
   
Haren is scheduled to start for the Halos on Sunday against the Texas Rangers. Barring any unexpected problems after the start, he said he is ready. “I had inflammation and stiffness in my back in all but about two of my starts,” said Haren, adding his back didn’t feel well even when he struck out 14 in a complete game shutout against Seattle on May 24. Haren was placed on the disabled list after giving up nine hits in 4 1/3 innings against Cleveland on July 3. He was 6-8 with a 4.86 earned run average. 

Haren was sharp, but not totally dominating. Major leaguers in rehab starts usually are in the minors to work on certain things and to test their physical ability after an injury. He allowed two-extra base hits, as Lake Elsinore’s Everett Williams hit a hard double to right field. However, of the seven hits he allowed, two were infield singles and one was a soft single to center in the fifth inning.

“I was warned that Lake Elsinore was aggressive and would run a lot,” said Haren, who played at Pepperdine University. Rico Noel, Lake Elsinore’s leadoff hitter, had three steals to increase his total to 66 for the season. “I apologized for allowing them (Lake Elsinore) to steal four bases.”

Lake Elsinore scored two runs in the third. Lake Elsinore shortstop Chris Bisson, who had two hits against Haren, led off the third with a triple. Noel brought Bisson home with a squeeze bunt on the third-base side. Noel stole second and third, scoring on Justin Miller’s single to right. Haren said he decided to throw only fastballs and splitters in the fifth inning. Although he bounced a couple of splitters, the pitch was generally effective. Haren’s pitches were mainly between 82 and 89 miles per hour, although one scout clocked a fastball at 91 MPH.
   
Haren also looked good when he got to first base quickly to complete a 3-6-1 double play. He has made 273 starts without missing a turn prior to be placed on the disabled list for the first time in his 10-year career.

“I felt I could get people out even at 60 or 70 percent, but big league hitters are better than that,” said Haren. “No one wants to give in and I am a competitor, but I had to swallow my pride. I hated it on the disabled list. During the All-Star break, I think I slept about nine hours in three days.”

Here's a few pictures our AngelsWin.com - IE 66ers photographer Jeremy Long captured tonight at the ballpark for Dan Haren's rehab start.

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Los Angeles Angels vs. Detroit Tigers Series Preview (7/16 - 7/19)

By Brian Waller, AngelsWin.com Columnist

Angels/Tigers Preview:

Tigers at a Glance
Offensively the Tigers rank 2nd in the AL in hitting (.269 avg), 4th in OPS (.755), 9th in home runs (86), and 13th in stolen bases (33).

Pitching wise Detroit is 7th in the AL in ERA (3.93), 12th in avg. against (.260), and 10th in WHIP (1.32). Excluding Justin Verlander, the Tigers rotation is not one that strikes fear in the hearts of opposing offenses. Good news Angels fans...the Halos wont have to face the reigning AL Cy Young award winner this week.

Player(s) to Watch:

Santana is 0-2 in his last 3 starts, allowing 15 ER in 14.1 innings while giving up 17 hits and walking 6. In career starts against the Detroit Tigers Santana is 6-2 with a 3.57 ERA. Santana's career in ERA at Comerica Park is 5.40. Santana will be facing some big "boppers" in Detroit, hopefully he maintain his control, avoid big innings and finish innings off after getting the first 2 outs. Here is how Santana has fared in his career against some of the Detroit sluggers:

vs. Miguel Cabrera

4-for-11 (.364 avg.), 1 HR, 3 RBI's and a 1.053 OPS

vs. Jhonny Peralta

2-for-14 (.143 avg.), 0 HR, 2 RBI's and a .330 OPS

vs. Prince Fielder

1-for-2 (.500 avg.), 1 HR, 2 RBI's and a 2.667 OPS.

Another player to watch is of course....Mike Trout! Trout went 7-for-14 (.500 avg.) against the New York Yankees this past weekend including 4 doubles and 4 stolen bases. I wouldn't be surprised at all to see Trout collect a few more doubles and possibly even a triple or two this week against the Tigers; Comerica Park is very spacious and Trout's speed on the base paths and in the outfield could be the difference maker.

Pitching Match-ups:

7/16 – Ervin Santana (4-9, 5.75 ERA) vs. Rick Porcello (6-5, 4.47 ERA)

7/17 – TBD vs. Jacob Turner (0-0, 1.80 ERA)

7/18 – C.J. Wilson (9-5, 2.43 ERA) vs. Doug Fister (3-6, 4.39 ERA)

7/19 – Jerome Williams (6-6, 4.67 ERA) vs. Matt Scherzer (8-5, 4.84 ERA)

Weather:

7/16 – Partly sunny with a high of 92 degrees
7/17 – Isolated T-Storms (30% chance of rain) with a high of 99 degrees
7/18 - Isolated T-Storms (30% chance of rain) with a high of 88 degrees
7/19 - Sunny with a high of 85 degrees

Game Times/Channels/Promotions:

7/16 – 4:05 p.m. / FSW & ESPN
7/17 – 4:05 p.m. / FSW
7/18 - 4:05 p.m. / FSW
7/19 - 10:05 a.m. / FSW

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Inside the Numbers: Angels Pitchers Rankings

By Andre Castillo  - AngelsWin.com Feature Writer

Our next update of Angels WAR rankings, as told by Fangraphs' WAR statistic. (Minimum IP = 20.)

Name   -  WAR
Jered Weaver (2.6)
C.J. Wilson (2.1)
Dan Haren (1.3)
Jerome Williams (1.1)
Ernesto Frieri (0.8)
Scott Downs (0.6)
LaTroy Hawkins (0.4)
David Carpenter (0.3)
Jordan Walden (0.3)
Hisanori Takahashi (0.1)
Garrett Richards (0.1)
Jason Isringhausen (0.0)
Ervin Santana (-0.3)

WAR doesn't have many surprises here for the Angels staff right now. This is about what we expect based on what we've seen so far this year. Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson are the only two standouts of the starting rotation. Haren has taken a big step back so far with his back injury really hampering his performance. Jerome Williams has been fine, but not great. Ernesto Frieri and Scott Downs have been bullpen stalwarts and are posting as much WAR as can reasonably be expected of a top reliever.

Some may be surprised by Garrett Richards's puny WAR total (only 0.1), but the Fangraphs metric used to determine pitcher WAR is not a fan of Richards. That metric is called Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) and it only measures three things: strikeouts, walks, and home runs allowed. Richards has not been good in any of those three categories. Until those improve, his WAR still stay low, no matter what his ERA does. Whether you agree with that philosophy is another story, but I do think that, at the very least, we shouldn't yet expect Richards to be anything more than an average number 5 starter until he shows improvement in his peripherals.

Other than Haren, the biggest disappointment continues to be Ervin Santana. Still sub-replacement level with -0.3 WAR accumulated so far.

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Los Angeles Angels vs. New York Yankees Series Preview (7/13 - 7/15)

By Brian Waller, AngelsWin.com Columnist

Angels/Yankees Preview:
The Angels have a pretty important stretch of games here the next week or so as they will face the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers on the road then come back to the "Big A" for a showdown with the Texas Rangers. These are definitely not "must win" games for the Halos but they are rather important as the Halos look to stay hot and continue winning series. Since their disastrous start, the Angels have rebounded nicely and currently have the 3rd best record in the AL. For the things going right for the Halos, there are still several questions; most of which pertain to the starting rotation. Fortunately for the Halos, they enter the 3-game series this week against the Yanks' with their two best arms on the mound in Game 1 and Game 3.

Facing the Yankees is never fun but the Halos are catching a break because they won't have to face left-hander Andy Pettitte or staff ace C.C. Sabathia this weekend. As you can see in the below pitching match-ups, the Halos should have the advantage on the mound. For those wondering, despite the injuries to the rotation the Yanks still rank 4th in the AL in pitching with a team ERA of 3.73.

So far in the 2012 season, the Bronx Bombers are living up to their nickname. New York ranks 6th in the AL in average, which may not seem too impressive but they rank 1st in OPS (.792) and home runs (134). The Yankees also rank 3rd in walks (302); it will be important for the Angels starters to have good control and avoid high pitch stressful innings that will bloat their pitch counts and knock them out of the game prematurely.

Player(s) to Watch:

Torii Hunter is 19-for-48 (.396 avg.) with 4 home runs and 8 RBI's in his career against Freddy Garcia, the pitcher he will be facing Saturday. Couple that with Hunter's .333 (18-for-54) career average at the new Yankee Stadium and the fact he was sporting a 1.144 OPS the final three games before the All-Star break and it appears as though the 36-year old is primed for a big game/series.

I wouldn't be surprised if C.J. Wilson has a big game against the Yankees. Wilson has had some pretty good success so far against a few sluggers, take a look below:

vs. Alex Rodriguez
1-for-16 (.063 avg.), 0 HR, 2 RBI's and a .433 OPS

vs. Curtis Granderson
2-for-11 (.182 avg.), 0 HR, 1 RBI and a .490 OPS

vs. Mark Teixeira
1-for-12 (.083 avg.), 0 HR, 0 RBI's and a .298 OPS

One thing to keep in mind though, C.J. has struggled with his control at times in 2012 but has always managed to avoid big innings. The Yankee line-up is a patient one so if Wilson isnt sharp then he might encounter a few high pitch innings which will knock him out of the game a bit earlier than expected.

Pitching Match-ups:

7/13 – C.J. Wilson (9-5, 2.43 ERA) vs. Hiroki Kuroda (8-7, 3.50 ERA)
Match-up Notes - Kuroda has a career 2-2 record against the Angels with a 1.71 ERA and a 0.91 WHIP. In his last outing before the All-Star break, Kuroda allowed 6 ER over 5.2 IP while giving up 10 hits. Wilson is 6-2 with a 2.01 ERA on the road this season. Wilson's last outing came 8 days ago against the Baltimore Orioles where he gave up 3 ER in 7.0 IP. In his career Wilson is 5-4 with a 2.75 ERA on 6+ days rest.

7/14 – Jerome Williams (6-5, 4.46 ERA) vs. Freddy Garcia (3-2, 5.23 ERA)
Match-up Notes - In his last two starts Garcia is 1-0 and only allowed 3 ER over 12 IP while striking out 9 and walking only 2. Garcia has a 15-3 career record against the Angels with a 2.59 ERA. Williams' 2012 debut was on April 15th at Yankee Stadium. In that outing he went 2.2 IP and allowed 5 ER while walking 3 and giving up 5 hits. This is Williams' first game back since returning from the DL.

7/15 – Jered Weaver (10-1, 1.96 ERA) vs. Ivan Nova (10-3, 3.92 ERA)
Match-up Notes - Nova has a career 3-1 record against the Angels with a 5.11 ERA. So far in 2012, Nova's road ERA is 3.36 while his ERA at Yankee Stadium is 4.70. In his last 27.2 innings Weaver has only allowed 4 ER. Despite spending time on the DL this season, Weaver still ranks 2nd in the AL in wins and is 1st in ERA, avg. against and WHIP.

Weather:

7/13 – Partly sunny with a high of 90 degrees
7/14 – Cloudy with a high of 86 degrees
7/15 - Chance of showers with a high of 85 degrees

Game Times/Channels/Promotions:

7/13 – 4:05 p.m. / FSW & MLBN
7/14 – 10:05 a.m. / FSW
7/15 - 10:05 a.m. / FSW & TBS

Angels’ Team Statistics / League Rank (as of 7/12/12)

Offense

Avg.: .268 / 3rd
OBP: .324 / 7th
SLG: .420 / 6th
OPS: .744 / 6th
Hits: 783 / 4th

HR: 94 / 7th

RBI’s: 360 / 8th

R: 378 / 8th

BB: 233 / 13th

SO: 556 / 12th

SB: 65 / 4th

Pitching

W: 48 / 3rd

ERA: 3.61 / 2nd
SV: 21 / 7th

SVO: 31 / 6th

IP: 762.1 / 9th

HR: 76 / 13th

BB: 273 / 6th

SO: 605 / 10th

Avg.: .241 / 3rd

WHIP: 1.26 / 5th

Fielding
FPCT: .983 / 7th
E: 54 / 7th

Opponent Interesting Facts:
The exterior of the new Yankee Stadium was made from 11,000 pieces of Indiana limestone along with granite and pre-cast concrete.

Each locker in the in both the home and visiting dugouts is equipped with a safety deposit box and a touch screen computer.

The Yankees are the first team to chemically treat their uniforms, as well as the showering surfaces with an anti-bacterial agent that reduces the risk of infection.

A new single-season record for most home runs hit at a Yankee home ballpark was set in 2009 when Vladimir Guerrero of the Los Angeles Angels hit the 216th home run of the season at the new Yankee Stadium, surpassing the previous record of 215 set at the original Yankee Stadium in 2005.

New Yankee Stadium Regular Season Firsts!
First Ceremonial First Pitch - Yogi Berra
First Pitch - C.C. Sabathia
First Home Run -Jorge Posada
First Hit - Johnny Damon
First win - Cliff Lee (Indians)
First Save - Mariano Rivera
First Game Results - Indians 10, Yankees 2

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AngelsWin.com (2012) Mid-Season Review Podcast

Listen to our latest podcast by clicking below on the player. Adam Dodge, Chuck Richter, Geoff Stoddart and Brian Ilten talked about the Angels first half, the All-Star Game, T.N.T. and potential deadline moves.

Listen to internet radio with AngelsWin on Blog Talk Radio

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Brandon Lodge Interview with AngelsWin.com

Interview Conducted By David Saltzer - AngelsWin.com Senior Writer

If the name Brandon Lodge sounds familiar to you, it should. That's because he's a local kid (Tesoro high school) drafted out of UCLA in 2011. As a player, he's a right-handed reliever with a mix in his arsenal to keep hitters on their toes. He thrives on the excitement of coming into a game during critical situations, especially if he can shut the opposition down.

AngelsWin.com recently caught up with Brandon to learn more about him as a person and as a player. What we found is a guy doing well (3.60 ERA at Orem--a hard league for pitchers), who recently got promoted up to Cedar Rapids. We talked a lot about life in the Minor Leagues, playing for coach Kotchman, and what his walk-in music will be when he makes it to Anaheim. He was a great person to interview, and watching this is well worth every Angels fan's time.

Click below to watch our interview with Brandon Lodge.

And, if you still have a bit of deja vu about Brandon's name, that's because you should have that feeling. His father, Roger, is the host of the SportsLODGE heard on AM 830 every weekday morning from 7:00 am until 10 am. Tune into his show after watching this interview to hear how personal a connection Roger has with the Angels organization.

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Tom Kotchman Interview with AngelsWin.com

Interview Conducted By Dave Saltzer - AngelsWin.com Senior Writer

With the All Star Game behind us, and a little break in front of us, it's time to take our first look at the recently drafted and developed players playing with the Orem Owlz.

By now, almost all Angels fans have heard of Coach Kotchman. He is one of the most highly regarded coaches in baseball, both inside--and outside--the Angels organization. Almost everyone whom the Angels have developed on their Major League team played for him our was scouted by him. It is up to him to be one of the first key figures on the road to Major Leagues for most players in the organization.

AngelsWin.com recently caught up with Coach Kotchman to discuss a wide range of topics, covering issues such as how the changes in the Collective Bargaining Agreement affected scouting and drafting this year, to whether or not he is truly a legendary coach. This is a must see interview for all Angels fans.

Over the coming weeks, we will be presenting interviews that AngelsWin.com recorded with many of the players currently on the Owlz roster. We will present one interview per day (Monday-Friday) to give fans a chance to meet each player who is chasing that dream of one day playing for the Angels.

Click below to watch our interview with coach Tom Kotchman.

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Trout, Harper Talk About First Full Season & All-Star Experience

Our good friends over at the MLB Network made sure to pass on the video embed to us this morning of their interview conducted yesterday on the network of rookie sensations Bryce Harper and Mike Trout who spoke about their tremendous season and their All-Star experience.

Check out the video interview below. 

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Mark Trumbo & Mike Trout An Explosive Duo

 

By Christian Ilten - AngelsWin.com Contributor

Trout, 20, leads the American League with a .341 (88-for-258) batting average and 26 steals for the Angels while Angels outfielder Mark Trumbo boasts a sick .306/.358/.608 slash line, with 22 Trumbombs and 57 runs batted in. 

#44 made it to the second round tonight in the home run derby, his first of the slugger's bright career, edging out other All-Star greats, but failed to beat Jose Bautista in the five pitch pitchoff. But that's OK people, he represented the Angels well and powered some of the longest home runs on the evening in front of a national audience and there's a good shot he'll knock one out tomorrow evening for the American League. 

There's been a ton of posts on the internet, Tweets on Twitter and news articles on what Angels fans are calling the T.N.T. boys in Trumbo and Trout, so instead of providing you something you've already read I created this video to let Trumbo and Trout do the talking -- With their bats, gloves and legs.

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Sunday Deal: Beer, Burger & Baseball - just $20 at the OC Sports Grill

The OC Sports Grill has a great deal for all you Angels fans! Get your tickets today for all Sunday home games on at GOT-OC.com ... Burgers, Beer, Ballgame for $20 at the OcSports Grill in partnership with AngelsWin.com.

The tickets they provide you are in Section 400. Great value! Tons of savings considering you can park at the OC Sports Grill before the game and have lunch, then walk over to the ballpark, saving money on parking! Its easy to drop 50-100+ bucks at the ballpark, not counting parking and your tickets. Visit GOT-OC.com today to purchase this incredible value offer for all Angels' home games on Sunday.

*You can exchange the beer and/or burger for soda and a grill hot dog if that is your preference.

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Ariel Pena is the answer

 (Shawn E. Davis/MiLB.com)

By Scott Stedman - AngelsWin.com Minor League Reporter

Angels fans are clamoring for some starting pitching help after Ervin Santana and Dan Haren have struggled mightily.  Now, with Haren admitting to a back problem that will likely put him on the disabled list, a hole is left in the rotation that was once acclaimed as the best in baseball.  The answer to the Angels' pitching woes is Ariel Pena.  Pena was born in Los Jovillos, Dominican Republic and was signed by the Angels as an 17-year-old on Feb. 17th, 2007.  The 6'3" right handed flame-thrower went to the Dominican Summer League where he quickly dominated hitters for two seasons.  Pena then slowly started to climb the ladder in the organization.  One problem has always remained for Pena, however.  He has not been able to consistently find the strike zone, that is, until this year.

Going into the 2012 season, Baseball America had Pena as the Angels #9 prospect.  They also ranked Pena's slider as the best in the organization.  From their organizational rankings, "Pena always has shown plus velocity on his fastball and slider, but his shaky command has held him back."  Pena sits in the mid 90s with his fastball, occasionally touching 97, 98.  He has a sinker in the low 90s and that hard slider in the 83-86 range.  This year he has added another-swing-and miss pitch, a heavy change-up in the high 80s that has a lot of late life.  He showed his plus stuff in Spring Training with the big club, throwing 5 shutout innings, giving up just 1 hit and punching out 5.  Mike Scioscia even had a glowing review of the now 23-year-old stating, “He’s probably, of all the things I’ve seen in camp, one of the brightest youngsters we can talk about."  All this praise before he even stepped on a mound in 2012, and boy Pena has had a remarkable campaign. 

This year, Pena is pitching in Double-A for the Arkansas Travelers.  He has put up a 2.95 ERA with 93 K's in 94.2 innings of work.  More importantly, Pena's BB/9 is down to 3.3 by far the lowest of his career in the States.  His ERA and K's are both good for 3rd in the Texas League.  Pena also is one of only five pitchers to toss a complete game this year in the Texas League.  While watching him pitch, I have noticed a huge improvement for Pena.  Earlier in his career he has struggled with the so-called 'big inning'.  At times, he looked as if he was pitching with his hair on fire, completely losing the strike zone.  Now, he is breathing.  He has limited the damage, and kept his team in the game virtually every time he goes out there.  Over his last 10 starts he has been getting better and better, posting a 2.09 ERA with 59 K's in 60 innings. 

If Haren were to go on the DL, it would line up perfectly for an Ariel Pena promotion due to the fact that they are pitching on the same days.  Remember, Garrett Richards made the jump from Double-A to the big leagues last season with pretty similar numbers.  The Travelers are in Little Rock tonight, but Ariel Pena may soon be on his way to Anaheim.

Here's an interview David Saltzer conducted with Ariel Pena last season, with fellow Angels prospect Jean Segura translating.

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Facebook Contest: Win an Angels Ticket to our July 28th Summer Fanfest

Facebook friends ... it's time to show your stuff!

Throughout the final series before the All-Star Break, AngelsWin.com will be running a "Best Picture" contest!

Take a picture that includes "AngelsWin" or "AngelsWin.com," post it on our Facebook page and you'll be entered to win a ticket to the game for the AngelsWin.com Mid-Summer Fanfest on July 28th! 

The day will start at 9am with the AngelsWin.com Softball Tournament. Softball tournament special guests include Angels play-by-by announcer Victor Rojas, Fox Sports West's Chris McGee and AM830's Jason Brennan. After softball we'll head over to the stadium for a monster tailgate party underneath the Big A! And then, it's game time! Enjoy the game with your friends from AngelsWin.com as the Halos square off against the Tampa Bay Rays. And finally, take-in a post game concert from the Goo Goo Dolls! All this can be yours, if you can deliver the goods with the best AngelsWin picture! 

Rules: * Contest runs July 5 to July 8 * Pictures must include AngelsWin or AngelsWin.com in them and must be posted on our Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/angelswincom) * Pictures can be funny, sincere ... whatever * Winner will be selected by Chuck Richter and Geoff Stoddart * Winner will be announced on Facebook during the Home Run contest on Monday July 9th

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Twitter Contest: Win an Angels Ticket to our July 28th Summer Fanfest

Twitter #AngelsFamily ... it's time to show your stuff! Throughout the final series before the All Star Break, AngelsWin.com will be running a "Best Tweet" contest! The winner will receive a ticket to the game for the AngelsWin.com Mid-Summer Fanfest on July 28th! The day will start at 9am with the AngelsWin.com Softball Tournament. 

Softball tournament special guests include Angels play-by-by announcer Victor Rojas, Fox Sports West's Chris McGee and AM830's Jason Brennan. 

After softball we'll head over to the stadium for a monster tailgate party underneath the Big A! And then, it's game time! Enjoy the game with your friends from AngelsWin.com as the Halos square off against the Tampa Bay Rays. And finally, take-in a post game concert from the Goo Goo Dolls! 

All this can be yours, if you can deliver the goods in 140 characters or less! 

Rules: * Contest runs July 5 to July 8 * Tweets must include @AngelsWin in them * Tweets can be funny, sincere ... whatever * Winner will be selected by @ChuckRichter70 and @GeoffStoddart * Winner will be announced on Twitter during the Home Run contest on Monday July 9th (Go Trumbo!)

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Little Man - Albie Pearson

By Rob Goldman - AngelsWin.com Historical Writer 

 

As the Washington Senators rolled into Boston during the summer of 1958 for a series against the Red Sox, Senators outfielder Albie Pearson was mired in a bad slump. His batting average stuck around .220, and Pearson-a 24 year old wide eyed rookie-couldn’t figure out why. Pearson had just completed his last round of batting practice and was headed to left field to shag balls when a shrill whistle coming from around the direction of the third base dugout stopped him in his tracks. Then came a disembodied voice: “Hey, Little Man!”

Pearson looked around, saw no one, and figuring it was a fan, resumed his march to the outfield. Then came the whistle again and the voice, only louder this time: “Little Man! Over here!” Suddenly a tall familiar figure in Red Sox flannels emerged from a doorway just beyond the dugout. Get in here, Little Man.” Commanded a smiling Ted Williams, waving his hand at Pearson, “Come on in.”

The stunned Pearson did as ordered, following Williams through the doorway that led to a private grounds crew storage area beneath the stands. At nearly 6’4”tall, Williams towered over the 5.5” Pearson. Having trouble?”  Williams asked. Pearson told him about his batting slump, and how he had exhausted all the means he could think of to break out of it. Williams looked at Pearson square in the eyes and grinned.

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Torii on Angels, coaches, Trout's catch & more...

Our good friends with the MLB Network passed along to us the embed code over the weekend so that in case you missed it, you can check out Angels right fielder Torii Hunter who joined Kevin Millar and Chris Rose to discuss the Angels' strong defense and unique coaching staff last week.

Speaking with Chris Rose and Kevin Millar via Ballpark Cam at the Rogers Centre on Intentional Talk, Hunter also comments on Mike Trout and his catch against the Orioles, including Bobby Wilson’s errant throw against the Dodgers.

Click below to watch the episode.

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Inside the Numbers: Angels Hitters Rankings

By Andre Castillo - AngelsWin.com Columnist

Name	WAR
Mike Trout	4.0 (AL Rank: 1st)
Mark Trumbo	2.7 (AL Rank: 13th)
Torii Hunter	1.9
Albert Pujols	1.1
Peter Bourjos	1.1
Alberto Callaspo	1.0
Howie Kendrick	1.0
Kendrys Morales	0.5
John Hester	0.4
Chris Iannetta	0.4
Erick Aybar	0.4
Maicer Izturis	0.3
Andrew Romine	0.2
Vernon Wells	0.0
Dan Haren	-0.1
Bobby Wilson	-0.3

Doesn't make the Vernon Wells trade look any better does it? There Mike Trout is, by far the best offensive player on the Angels roster, and an astounding 1st in the American League in WAR, despite not playing an inning in April. Because of who else, but the incomparable Vernon Wells. While we don't really know how Trout would have responded had be been promoted right out of Spring training, it wouldn't be a stretch to guess that he would have handily beat Vernon Wells's production of 0 WAR.

Speaking of underplaying top performers, look who's number two and ranked a stellar 13th overall in the American League: Mark Trumbo. Vernon Wells's timely injury helped ensure he would receive steadier playing time in the outfield after the failed experiment at third, but it still hasn't left much room for Peter Bourjos, who last year posted a gaudy 4.3 WAR and still has, according to Fangraphs, managed more WAR to date than either Kendrys Morales and Howie Kendrick. It seems that the optimal Angels line up at this point would have Trumbo at DH and Bourjos and Trout in the outfield, with Callaspo at third and Morales riding the pine.

Other interesting notes: Albert Pujols is slowly but surely bringing his season stats to respectability, though they are still on target for career lows across the board. One continuing ugly trend however -- check out his his awful baserunning scores (BsR), worst in the American League! (See for yourself here).

Also, John Hester isn't bad. And Torii Hunter continues to be a bit of an ageless wonder. Good for him.

*Note: These numbers do not include the Sunday game between the Angels and the Blue Jays.

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Trumbo, Trout, Wilson & Weaver Selected to the 2012 All-Star Game in Kansas City

 

Today on TBS, the following Angels were named to the 2012 All-Star Game:

RHP Jered Weaver (3rd selection, 3rd consecutive)

LHP C.J. Wilson (2nd selection, 2nd consecutive)

OF Mike Trout (1st selection)

OF Mark Trumbo (1st selection)

· The four All-Stars are the most for the Angels since 1995 (four players). 2012 marks the seventh time in franchise history the team has sent four or more players to the All-Star Game with the club record of six being set in 1979.

· Angels could have five players with the addition of RHP Ernesto Frieri as a candidate for the final fan vote…Freiri is the fifth Angel nominated for the final vote: Erstad (2002), B. Molina (2003), Escobar (2007) and C. Figgins (2009).

7th time Angels have had four or more players named

·2012 (4)
·1995 (4)
·1983 (5)
·1982 (4)
·1981 (4)
·1979 (6)
·1970 (4)

· Rookie Mike Trout will become the seventh youngest A.L. All-Star position player in the 79-year history of the Midsummer Classic, including the fifth youngest A.L. All-Star outfielder.  The only six A.L. All-Star non-pitchers younger than Trout, who will be 20 years and 11+ months on July 10th, were catcher Butch Wynegar (20/4+ mos., 1976 ASG), outfielder Ken Griffey, Jr. (20/7+ mos., 1990 ASG), catcher Ivan Rodriguez (20/7+ mos., 1992 ASG), Hall of Fame outfielders Mickey Mantle (20/8+ mos., 1952 ASG) and Al Kaline (20/9+ mos., 1955 ASG) and outfielder Claudell Washington (20/10+ mos., 1975 ASG).  (Data provided by the Elias Sports Bureau)  In addition, Trout’s 832,439 write-in votes are the most that any player has received since Freddy Sanchez of the Pittsburgh Pirates, hosts of the 2006 All-Star Game, drew 856,685 that year.

Angels Rookie All-Stars

·OF Mike Trout 2012
·RHP Jordan Walden 2011
·RHP Jason Dickson 1997
·1B Wally Joyner 1986 (starter)
·RHP Mark Clear 1979
·SS Dave Chalk 1974
·RHP Ken McBride 1961 (2nd game)

·With Trumbo and Trout’s selections, the Angels have two All-Stars under the age of 27 for the first time since 2008 when the Halos sent Francisco Rodriguez (26) and Ervin Santana (25) to New York…Trumbo and Trout are also the first pair of Angel position players to make the All-Star squad since Torii Hunter and Chone Figgins in 2009.

·Trout is younger than 35 of the 50 players on the Futures Game rosters (from Angels’ Darren Chan).

·Angels have a rookie on the team for the second consecutive season (Walden in 2011).

·Weaver makes his third consecutive All-Star Game, becoming the first Halo to get the nod to three straight mid-summer classics since Vlad Guerrero from 2005 to 2007.

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