This series doesn't lack in star power, and game one proved that immediately. The Los Angeles Angels (9-8) took down the New York Yankees (10-7) 5-2, kicked off by a Shohei Ohtani first-inning home run. Aaron Judge and Mike Trout didn't leave the yard, but they helped their respective sides tack on a run too. Game two is on Wednesday night, preceding this 4:05 p.m. EST clash on Thursday. It'll be the final time these clubs boogie in the Bronx, as Yankee Stadium is set to host again.
Sho Borough ??#GoHalos pic.twitter.com/VCPMFla0W1
— Los Angeles Angels (@Angels) April 18, 2023
In 2022, Patrick Sandoval had the best season of his career, finishing with career highs in innings pitched, ERA, ERA+, FIP, and HR/9. Included in his game logs of 2022 are his only complete game shutout and a 7.0-inning gem against the Yankees two starts later. He allowed two runs, but only three hits and two walks while striking out seven. 2023 has looked similar, as Sandoval has only allowed two earned runs after three starts. The Angels may have lost his last two starts, but Sandoval isn't to blame.
An offense putting up over five runs per game, ranking eighth in MLB after Tuesday, just happened to have two off days. Los Angeles' offense only ranks 19th in slugging percentage, but a 10.3% walk rate (7th) helps them get on base at the 12th-highest rate. Hunter Renfroe was 11th in baseball with 16 RBIs before Wednesday's game, and the team has two of the best hitters on the planet with Trout and Ohtani.& #13;
Los Angeles' bullpen is fifth in WAR among all 30 teams through 17 games. Their relievers were eighth in ERA and sixth in FIP before Wednesday's contest. The Angels bullpen entered may only be 19th in groundball rate, but they're top-10 in both BB/9 and HR/9.