Post-Game Recap: Angels vs. Red Sox (7/19/08)

While Mike Scioscia refused to call this a statement series, the Angels are nevertheless doing just that as they beat the Red Sox 4-2 for the second time in this weekend series.

Facing Boston’s ace Josh Beckett, the scrappy Angels showed that they have enough offense to beat their A.L. East nemesis the Red Sox. With the Red Sox holding a 2-0 heading into the bottom of the 7th, it appeared as if the Angels would once again fall just a little short of the might Red Sox. However, Vladimir Guerrero refused to give in, as his home run made it just a one run deficit. With game on the line, pinch hitter Erick Aybar hit a bases clearing triple, which scored Torii Hunter, Garrett Anderson, and Howie Kendrick to give the Halos a 4-2 lead.

With the lead secured, the Angels turned it over to their bullpen, one of the best in all of major league baseball. Scot Shields struck out Jed Lowrie with the bases loaded to end the 8th and protect the precious two run lead. Then, K-Rod worked the ninth as usual for his big league-leading 39th save in 42 chances. Bobby Thigpen better watch out now.

So, the top 3 performers for the final game of the first half are…

Top 3 Angel performers

1) Any time you can hold Boston’s prolific offense to just two runs than you’re obviously doing something right. Today, Joe Saunders pitched quite well in 6.2 innings of work and certainly gave the Halos a chance to win this one. The home run he gave up to Kevin Youkilis in the 2nd inning would have been caught at the warning track during a night game anyway. It’s certainly been an exciting week for Joe, with his wife giving birth, an appearance in the All-Star game, and a solid performance against the Red Sox.

2) While he only had one at bat this game, Erick Aybar’s performance certainly saved the day for the Angels. His bases clearing triple in the bottom of the seventh gave the Halos a 4-2 lead.

3) Vladimir Guerrero was only 1-4, but his home run in the bottom of the seventh put the Angels within striking distance.

Angels Jeff Weaver of the Day (Note: JTD denotes the Angel that played the poorest): Jeff Mathis may be looking to remain this infamous distinction, Jeff Weaver of the Day, as he once again goes hitless. I want Mike Napoli back!

Play of the Game: Ummm…this is an easy one. Aybar’s bases clearing triple gave the Angels the lead and basically won the game for them.

What to look for next game: The Angels will look to sweep the Red Sox, as they send Jon Garland to the mound in this version of Sunday Night Afternoon Baseball.

Game is Sunday @ 3:00 PM (ESPN).