To preview the ALDS match-up with the Angels, we interviewed Eric Denton from Angelswin.com about the team he covers.
FW: How confident are Angels fans in their teams’ ability to overcome their past playoff history against Boston?
Eric Denton: There really seems to be two groups. The eternal optimists and the sky is falling types (we call them “Failos”). I really thought they would beat Boston last season believing Mark Teixeira was the key element. Tex produced as did Torii Hunter (.389). Vlad Guerrero (.467), Chone Figgins (.333) finally had productive post-seasons also. The biggest issue was Garret Anderson, Juan Rivera Howie Kendrick & Erick Aybar not producing at all.
There are legitimate reasons for Angel fans to be hopeful in 2009. Kendry Morales replaced Teixeira and was named team MVP. Bobby Abreu is a much more productive hitter than Anderson at this point. Rivera is healthy & played a full season. Kendrick & Aybar are a year older & wiser. And while it may not seem like a big deal because he gets over looked, having Macier Izturis available is a big plus for the Angels this year. I firmly believe if Mike Scioscia had Izturis available in 2008 there might have been a different outcome.
FW: What impact has Scott Kazmir had on the team since he was acquired?
Eric Denton: Kazmir has been exactly what the Angels needed (1.73 era in 6 starts) He solidified a tired and tattered rotation and really seemed to spark the other four starters. After Tony Reagins acquired Scott the rotation gelled.
FW: What do you see as the Angels’ biggest strengths and weakness coming into this series?
Eric Denton: Strengths – This is the highest scoring Angel team in their history at one point all nine starting players finished a game all hitting .300 or better. They have team wide speed and will try to take advantage of Boston’s issues throwing out base stealers. They are a much more patient team and had four starters with 20 or more homers. The rotation is strong. Jered Weaver had his best season, meanwhile Scott Kazmir & Joe Saunders have winning records pitching in Fenway Park. Team chemistry. This team has a much strong bond than the 2008 team having come together as a group after the tragic death of Nick Adenhart.
Weakness – Bullpen. They have been inconsistent all season. Even though Brian Fuentes lead the league in saves he does not instill confidence in the hearts of Angel fans. Jason Bulger might not be healthy and Kevin Jepsen might be tired out.
Prone to team wide slumps. It seems the Angels get hot and get cold as a group.
FW: Is Torii Hunter the leader of the team?
Eric Denton: He’s definitely the most entertaining, positive and charismatic player on the club. He’s a great player to have in the clubhouse but I wouldn’t say he’s the sole leader. Bobby Abreu has had a huge impact on the team, especially on Chone Figgins, Erick Aybar, Kendry Morales and Juan Rivera. While John Lackey only plays every 5th day the Angels look to him for leadership as well and he delivers.
FW: Who will the Angels pitch if it goes to games 4 and 5?
Eric Denton: Lackey is in line to pitch game 5 in Anaheim if needed. Joe Saunders will pitch game 4 in Boston.
I answered some questions on the Red Sox for Angelswin.com. You can check them out here.
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