2011 Los Angeles Angels mid season review
With a 50-42 record the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim find themselves in second place in the American League West at the All Star break. The Angels have spent 24 days in first place, and even built a two game lead. Their 13-5 record in interleague play is a strong reason why they have done so well in the first half, but a 13-11 record against their three divisional opponents is the reason they find themselves in second place currently. The only team in the AL west they have dominated is the Seattle Mariners going 6-3 against them. They are 4-5 against the Oakland A’s and just 3-3 with the first place Texas Rangers.
The Angels offense has scored 355 runs, on 810 hits. Their team batting average is .257 and all of those numbers rank around the middle of the 14 AL clubs. Angels hitters have struck out 641 times, and drawn 265 walks. Two of their regular nine starters are batting below or just above .200, and they have hit the fifth fewest home runs in the AL with 76. This is a lineup that looks to need a bat.
The Pitching staff has surrendered 330 runs on 763 hits. The staff ERA is third best in the AL at 3.26. While Dan Haren and Jered Weaver both already have double digit victories, there is a big falloff to the mid to back of the starting rotation. Their final three starters all have around five wins and that could be an issue down the stretch. While their closer, Jordan Walden has been very good, two of relief pitchers high ERA’s. That could also be an issue in the second half.
I would like to see this team add a bat to the lineup and some help in the bullpen. Of course, there are some reports that Angels owner Arte Moreno is unwilling to add any more payroll this year so the Angels may have to simply ride this one out.
Related Links:
- Los Angeles Angels news and notes
- Joshua Lobdell.com
