After a disappointing 4 losses in the past five games, Angels skipper Mike Scioscia told players that changes were in the air. Well, frankly, he wasn’t kidding. Scioscia optioned struggling second baseman Howie Kendrick to AAA Salt Lake, and inserted Maicer Izturis into the lineup, who came through with four hits in the Halos’ 11-6 victory.

But Izturis wasn’t the only player to come up with big hits on Friday night. Torii Hunter and Kendry Morales provided some needed power with a home run each. Bobby Abreu also successful driving in runs, as he recorded 3 RBIs. Even with an offense that finally seemed to click, the Angels did get much needed help from their starting pitcher Matt Palmer.

Making his first start since May 30th, Palmer allowed four runs, three earned, and 10 hits over six innings in replace of Kelvim Escobar, who has moved to the bullpen for now.

Here are some additional thoughts:

• This is an excellent opportunity for the Angels to rebound. With a homestand against the N.L. West, the Angels have an excellant opportunity to make ground on Texas. A year ago, the Padres were 3-15 against the American League during interleague play so the Halos have a great opportunity at hand.
• Chone Figgins finally acted like a leadoff man by getting on base. For much of the season, Figgins has had a relatively low OBP for a leadoff hitter, but he was quite effective against San Diego. In five at bats, Figgins recorded 3 hits and scored 3 runs. 
• The Angels are really tough to beat when they start getting extra base hits as opposed to just singles. On Friday, there were 18 hits by the Angels, seven of which were extra base hits. If they can keep that kind of performance up, than there is no reason as to why they shouldn’t win the division title this year.

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