Do you realize that the much maligned Angels' starting rotation has thrown quality starts in 7 of their last 8 games? Is it really possible that the Halo rotation isn't as bad as it seems? Could pitching be the thing that gets the Angels moving up the standings rather than the vaunted offense? I know I might be getting carried away a bit, but the starters are doing what we hoped they would and more. The rotation has been so good that management thought Garrett Richards, who has the best stuff of the staff, should be sent to the pen to shore up that mess. Of course, this could all be some sick dream that will turn into a nightmare at any moment, but for now let us all dream this sweet dream…
Game Notes
— See what happens when Mike Trout relaxes and lets his talent shine. I have been of the opinion that young Mr. Trout has been pressing a bit to live up to the expectations that have been placed upon him. It's hard to remember that dud can't even rent a car yet. It's nice to see him hitting the ball again with some power.
— Speaking of power, Mark Trumbo can now officially be labeled a professional hitter. When he makes contact the ball seems to jump off his bat. But he has added a fair amount of patience to his arsenal and as result he is much tougher to pitch to. It's a good thing he and Trout are hitting because, oh by the way, Josh Hamilton is still not even close to getting his bat on the ball.
— Nice to see Erick Aybar and Alberto Callaspo back on the left side of the infield. We all fell in love with the grittiness of Brendan Harris and the enthusiasm of Luis Jimenez, but both were starting to run out of steam. If the Angels are going to win any large amount of games, they need pros out there and that's what they have now.
Halo Hero
That's two straight complete games for Jason Vargas. And this one was a shutout to boot. I was a huge fan of this trade and the returns seem to favor the Angels right now. Vargas is the kind of crafty left hander that used to drive the Angels crazy. Tonight he pounded the strike zone and let hitters get outs for him. Uh, Mr. Wilson can you put down the Head and Shoulders for a minute and pay attention please?) Don't let the stats fool you, Vargas is the real deal and his work was huge tonight.
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