Halo Headlines: Hamilton swinging at fewer first pitches, Burnett resumes throwing, Hanson progressing

Halo Headlines: Hamilton swinging at fewer first pitches, Burnett resumes throwing, Hanson progressing

The July 10th, 2013 edition of daily news for the Los Angeles Angels including Hamilton swinging at fewer first pitches, Burnett resumes throwing, Hanson progressing and much more…

The Story: Josh Hamilton admits to hearing and being affected by all the fans screaming at him to stop swinging at every first pitch.

The Monkey Says: Though he doesn't cop to that being the direct reason that he has exercised more plate discipline of late. I haven't looked at the data yet, but my fear is that this hot streak is a mirage brought about by Josh being slightly more selective and that pitchers will eventually adjust again, knowing he isn't chasing everything, and he'll crater once more.


The Story: Sean Burnett played catch for the first time yesterday while Tommy Hanson is set to throw his first bullpen session today.

The Monkey Says: Burnett will be out at least through the end of this month, assuming no setbacks. The news sounds more positive regarding Hanson, but he too needs to show that he can get through that bullpen session first.


The Story: Jason Vargas was examined by doctors yesterday and could soon start throwing again.

The Monkey Says: No word yet on how that exam went, but it is critically important to whether or not the Halos will need to find a more long-term replacement for Vargas in the rotation at the trade deadline.


The Story: The Angels' All-Time best roster ranks as the 21st best overall.

The Monkey Says: Give it five years when Trout and Weaver will move onto the list and they should fly up that list.


The Story: Howie Kendrick remains under-the-radar despite his strong first half.

The Monkey Says: He got an ASG nod once and a lot of players will admit that they really only care about that first selection. Kendrick will still get plenty of recognition from those who know the game well and in a way he already did when the Angels gave him his nice contract extension last year.


The Story: Michael Kohn draws inspiration from a tattoo on his wrist.

The Monkey Says: Wait, tattoos are for inspiration? I am really going to have to rethink my SpongeBob Squarepants tramp stamp now.


The Story: The perfect 25-man AL All-Star roster.

The Monkey Says: It still includes just one Angel, Mike Trout.

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