The Los Angeles Angels did not get the result they were hoping for in their series opener against the Houston Astros. Despite leading for most of the game, the Halos were unable to close things out, even with a bump from superstar Mike Trout.
In the sixth inning — with the game scoreless — Trout took an 0-1 sinker 429 feet for a two-run home run. It was just another feather in the cap of an elite run he’s been on since returning from injury.
Not only that, it was Trout’s fifth consecutive game with a home run, setting a new career-best and tying Bobby Bonds for the Angels franchise record. Sadly, it wasn’t enough for the Angels, who lost in Houston 4-3. But it was a memorable night nonetheless for Trout.
The Angels superstar spoke about what tying Bonds’ record and setting a new career-best means to him, according to Edwin Perez of MLB.com:
“It’s pretty cool,” Trout said. “I think any time you can tie or break any franchise record for doing something, it’s cool.”
Angels interim manager Phil Nevin focused more on what he’s seen from Trout just in recent months.
“[Trout] works hard and has been really working hard in the cage,” interim manager Phil Nevin said. “He’s just taking some good passes and really good at-bats against some good pitchers.”
Since Trout’s return from the IL on August 19 (19 games) he has been absolutely raking at the plate. In that span, he is slashing .307/.358/.693 for an OPS of 1.051 with nine home runs. All the while, he has continuously stated that his timing is still not where he’d like it to be.
For all the concerns regarding Trout’s back while he was on the IL, he has quickly managed to get back to doing what he does best, and that is playing baseball at a level that very few players in MLB history have reached.
Jared Walsh names Roberto Clemente nominee
Although Jared Walsh is out for the season as a player, he is still managing to make an impact in the community. He was rewarded for this by being named the Angels’ nominee for the Roberto Clemente award. Fans can vote on this honor between each of the 30 teams’ nominees.