Series Preview: Los Angeles Angels vs. Milwaukee Brewers

The Angels are five and one on this lengthy, late-season road trip and a big part of their success has been the pitching. One of the most talked about problems for the Los Angeles Angels is suddenly finding some recent success, particularly in the bullpen. In 16 1/3 innings the Angels relievers have allowed just 2 runs for an ERA of 1.12 this road trip. It’s a small sample size but its a trend the Angels will hope to continue in their final three games on the road against the Milwaukee Brewers.

August 19, 2013; Anaheim, CA, USA; Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Jered Weaver (36) pitches during the first inning against the Cleveland Indians at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Here are the match-ups:

Game One: Jered Weaver vs. Wily Peralta

Jered Weaver is coming off one of his best outings of the 2013 season where he went 8 strong innings against the Seattle Mariners, allowing just three hits and striking out 8. This is the first time that Weaver has faced the Brewers in his career and Only two players on Milwaukee have ever faced Weaver.

The Angels will face Wily Peralta who has struggled this season, particularly at home in Miller Park where his ERA in 13 starts sits just over 5.

Game Two: Jerome Williams vs. Marco Estrada

Williams has struggled in the second-half of 2013 with an ERA of 7.61 in his last 10 starts. However, after Garrett Richards failed to get out of the fourth inning on Wednesday, Willams put in 3 innings of long relief and gave up a single hit while striking out two. He’ll look to continue that success against Marco Estrada who has been solid since coming of the disabled list posting a 1.88 ERA in his first four starts back.

Game Three: C.J. Wilson vs. Kyle Lohse

It’s the battle of the number two starters. Although, on the Brewers, Kyle Lohse may be the best pitcher in their rotation this year. That being so, Lohse has struggled in August, llowing 35 hits in only 30 1/3 innings with an ERA of 4.15. For the Angels, Wilson takes the hill in the final game of the series. In August, Wilson has had highs and lows. He’s posted a 2.84 ERA but has struggled with his command at times hitting the 100 pitch mark before the 6th innings twice.