Coming off a 1-5 road trip the Angels return to the Big A starting a six game home stand against the Detroit Tigers and the Seattle Mariners.
This should be an interesting home stand for the club as they try and put the events both on and off the field past them. Monday’s off-day couldn’t have come at a better time. With a 4-8 record that Halos have a chance to make up some ground when Seattle gets to town for their weekend series.
Tuesday afternoon in particular could see the Angels shaking up the roster a bit. It’s unlikely that Mike Scioscia will go with 13 pitchers for much longer. There is a possibility that reliever Kevin Jepsen could be headed to the disabled list with back issues, giving the Angels room on the roster to promote hot hitting SS/3B Brandon Wood.
Update – That exact scenario did play out as Jepsen was placed on the DL and Wood recalled.
It’s also possible though unlikely that Scioscia will choose to promote a minor league starter for Thursdays game and shift Darren Oliver back to relief. To do so the Angels would have to make room on the 40 man roster if they plan on adding a player. Salt Lake Bees starter Anthony Ortega started on Monday night and it’s unlikely he’d be available.
Obviously the biggest issue was the struggles of the bullpen in Seattle and Minnesota. Scot Shields who has a 0-1 record with a 7.20 era believes his issues are behind him. Justin Speier who struggled mightily last season has had some success thus far in 2009 and credits his new delivery. Hopefully this is the case and both pitchers will provide steady relief work the rest of the season.
Bobby Abreu is not only contributing on the field but has quickly fit into the clubhouse chemistry.
If you’re in the area, drop by Throwbacks Sports Bar & Grill to check out “The Rex Hudler Show” starting at 3pm. Rex’s guest will be former Angels starter Mark Langston.
TV – FS Prime – Radio – AM830, KFWB 980, KWKW 1130
Angels vs. Tigers
Tonight : Jered Weaver (1-1, 3.09) vs. Armando Galarraga (2-0, 0.68).
Wednesday : Joe Saunders (2-1, 2.18) vs. Justin Verlander (0-2, 7.88).
Thursday : TBA vs. Edwin Jackson (0-0, 3.38).
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