Series Preview: Halos Head To Chi-Town For a Three Game Series Against the Sox

May 9, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles Angels manager Mike Scioscia (14) argues with umpire Adrian Johnson (not pictured) against the Houston Astros in the seventh inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Angels (12-22, .353) snapped a four game losing streak last night, beating the Astros 6-5 in the final game of their three game series at Houston.  The Halos avoided the dreaded sweep thanks largely in part to Mark Trumbo‘s two-run double followed by an Albert Callaspo sac fly.  Their 12 wins rank the Halos 28th in MLB and 14th in the American League.

It should be noted the Angels left 16 runners on base and went 1-for-13 with runners in scoring position.  It looked like the bases were always loaded but the offense just couldn’t capitalize when they needed to.  What is it about RISP that makes the big bats freeze up?

Garrett Richards was charged with the win and is now 2-3 with a 4.96 ERA.  C.J. Wilson currently leads the staff with a 3.86 ERA.  So yeah, that’s the kind of season we’re having so far.

Maybe the best moment from last night:  Mike Scioscia left the dugout and showed a little fire for a change!  I won’t go into the umpire fiasco that is currently lighting up the internet, but let’s just say Scioscia looked upset – like someone ordered him a salad for dinner – upset (see above).

The Halos are now nine games back and sitting comfortably (or maybe uncomfortably) in 4th place in the AL West.  The White Sox are struggling as well, posting a 14 – 18 (.438) record in the AL Central and five games back of the division leading Tigers.  Any other fans want to move the Angels to the AL Central?

Angels RHP Tommy Hanson was scheduled to start tonight but is dealing with issues related to a death in the family.  According to MLB.com, the Angels will call up a player to be named from Triple-A Salt Lake – many are speculating that Orangel Arenas (1-5, 6.57 ERA) will receive the call as he is the only pitcher with the required rest.

The White Sox are coming off a 6-3 win against the New York Mets Wednesday night, and are looking to continue this trend against the Angels.

Game One:  Friday, May 10th, 5:10 PM PT @ U.S. Cellular Field (T.V. FS-W, MLBN, KLAA 830 Radio).  The Angels starter is TBD.  The White Sox will throw Dylan Axelrod (0-2, 3.60 ERA) to start the series.  Axelrod has pitched better than his stats show, allowing three runs or fewer in five of his six starts according to MLB.com.

Game Two:  In game two Jerome Williams (1-1, 3.16 ERA) is scheduled to take the mound against LHP Jose Quintana (2-0, 3.86).  Quintana has looked good as of late, taking a no-hitter into the sixth inning against the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

Game Three:  The rubber match will showcase LHP C.J. Wilson (3-1, 3.86 ERA) facing off against the White Sox lefty Chris Sale (302, 3.43 ERA).  Sale is the ace of the Chicago staff and should make for a compelling match-up to end the series.