Five teams to watch in MLB’s second half
By Tim Haberin
Los Angeles Angels
Jul 14, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; American League outfielder Mike Trout (27) of the Los Angeles Angels poses with the MVP trophy after the 2015 MLB All Star Game at Great American Ball Park. The American League all stars won 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Astros were one of the first half’s biggest surprises, but one of their divisional foes from California nudged past them in the standings prior to the All-Star break. The Los Angeles Angels won 11 of their last 14 games before the Midsummer Classic to move up a half game on Houston.
Mike Trout, who just picked up his second consecutive All-Star Game MVP award, is obviously an enormously valuable asset for any team to have during a playoff push. But the Halos have been more than just Trout during their resurgence. Albert Pujols has looked rejuvenated this year, currently tied (with Trout) for the AL lead in home runs with 26. For a lineup that has struggled to score runs at times, L.A. will need both of these guys to remain legitimate heart-of-the-order threats.
The Angels have also relied on solid pitching to get them to where they are. Starter Hector Santiago boasts a 2.33 ERA, and Garrett Richards has collected nine victories. In the bullpen, closer Huston Street has notched 24 saves, and Joe Smith, Jose Alvarez and Cesar Ramos have all done nice work in middle relief.
It will be interesting to see whether the Astros take back control of the division with authority once the season resumes or if the Halos continue to be a thorn in their side. Trade deadline maneuvering could play a big role in charting the course of this race. If L.A. finds a way to add another bat, they could be a formidable threat.
Next: Team 1