Los Angeles Angels: When shutouts do not matter

In theory, the more times a team throws a shutout, the better they should be. Someone forgot to explain that to the Los Angeles Angels.

On Monday, the Angels were able to shut down the Tigers, taking a 10-0 victory. That win was their 17th shutout of the season, tying the Mets for the most in the majors in 2022. However, unlike the Mets, that was the Angels’ 59th win of the season.

Los Angeles Angels need shutouts to win?

Unlike the Mets, the Angels are not going to be anywhere near the postseason. The Mets have 85 wins heading into Tuesday and are 26 games better than the Angels. Considering that, at one point, the Angels had a 27-17 record, their performance this year is even more disappointing.

It is interesting to note that nearly 29% of their wins this season have come via shutout. As the Angels rank 13th in runs, OPS, and on base percentage, they almost have to keep the other team off the board to have a chance. Their margin for error is razor thin given their offensive woes.

It certainly helps that the Angels were facing the Tigers. Their loss on Monday marked the 19th time they were shut out this season, their worst total since 1976, and is tied with the 2014 Mariners for the most times being shut out in the past 40 years. For a team that needs shutouts to win games, the Tigers were the perfect opponent.

It is just another statistical oddity in what has been a disappointing season for the Angels. Expectations had been high at the start of the season after they finally paid attention to their pitching staff, only to watch their hopes fade away. But at least they can throw shutouts.

The Los Angeles Angels are tied for the most shutouts in the majors. Too bad that has not mattered at all in the standings.