Angels Secure Historic Sweep Against Dodgers
The Los Angeles Angels have achieved a significant milestone by sweeping the Dodgers in a three-game series for the first time since 2010. This historic feat was sealed with a 6-4 victory on Sunday.
The Game-Changing Moment
Travis d’Arnaud broke an eighth-inning tie with his first home run of the season, proving to be the decisive factor in the game. His homer off left-hander Anthony Banda gave the Angels a lead they would not relinquish. With the score previously tied at 4-4, d’Arnaud’s home run was his second RBI of the game, showcasing his crucial role in the team’s success.
Additional Runs Secure the Win
The Angels added another run in the ninth inning, courtesy of singles by Zach Neto and Nolan Schanuel, followed by Yoán Moncada’s double-play grounder. This additional run provided a cushion, ultimately contributing to the Angels’ victory.
Pitching Performances
Shaun Anderson secured his first Angels win, despite giving up a tying three-run homer in the seventh to Will Smith. Anderson bounced back, retiring the side in order in the eighth and ninth innings, including getting Shohei Ohtani to swing over a changeup for strike three to end the game. Angels left-hander Yusei Kikuchi had a strong outing, giving up one run and three hits while striking out seven in 5 2/3 innings. However, his game was cut short due to a right ankle injury suffered in a collision at first base with Tommy Edman.
Dodgers’ Struggles
Dodgers right-hander Tony Gonsolin had a tumultuous game, cutting his right thumb on his fifth pitch. Despite the injury, Gonsolin continued to pitch but struggled with his command, giving up four runs, four hits, and five walks in four innings. He allowed Neto’s solo homer and Taylor Ward’s two-run homer in the first inning. D’Arnaud also had an RBI single in the third, contributing to the Dodgers’ woes.
Turning Point
Will Smith hit a game-tying, three-run homer in the bottom of the seventh, but the Dodgers couldn’t complete the comeback. This moment marked a significant turning point in the game, as the Angels managed to regain their lead shortly after.
Historical Significance
The victory marked the first time the Angels have swept the Dodgers in a three-game series since June 11-13, 2010. This historic sweep is a notable achievement for the Angels, highlighting their strength and resilience against their local rivals.
Key Moment
Kikuchi gave up an RBI single to Shohei Ohtani and loaded the bases with two outs in the fifth on walks to Mookie Betts and Smith, then retired Freddie Freeman on a flyout. Kikuchi’s performance, despite the injury, was commendable, and he remains winless with a 3.50 ERA in 10 starts.
Key Stat
Banda has allowed five home runs in 20 2/3 innings, matching his total in 49 2/3 innings last year. This statistic underscores the challenges Banda faced in the game, particularly with d’Arnaud’s decisive home run.
Up Next
Angels: RHP José Soriano (2-4, 3.46 ERA) starts Monday night at the Athletics, who go with RHP J.T. Ginn (1-1, 4.61). Dodgers: RHP Landon Knack (2-1, 5.89 ERA) will start for the Dodgers on Monday night in a series opener against visiting Arizona and RHP Brandon Pfaadt (6-3, 3.73).
Conclusion
The Angels’ sweep against the Dodgers is a significant milestone, marking a turning point in their season. With strong performances from players like Travis d’Arnaud and Shaun Anderson, the team demonstrated its capability to overcome challenges and secure crucial wins. As the season progresses, the Angels will look to build on this momentum, aiming for continued success.
FAQs
- Q: Who was the decisive player in the Angels’ sweep against the Dodgers?
A: Travis d’Arnaud, with his first home run of the season, broke an eighth-inning tie and secured the win for the Angels. - Q: What was the historical significance of the Angels’ win?
A: The Angels achieved their first three-game sweep against the Dodgers since 2010. - Q: Who will pitch for the Angels and Dodgers in their next games?
A: José Soriano for the Angels against the Athletics, and Landon Knack for the Dodgers against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
