Game No. 27: Los Angeles Angels (13-13) vs. Cleveland Indians (11-16)

Apr 25, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; Los Angeles Anglels starting pitcher C.J. Wilson (33) pitches against the New York Yankees during the second inning of a game at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Thanks in large part Erick Aybar’s 4-for-5 day at the plate, the Angels hit the .500 mark yet again with a 6-4 victory over Cleveland last night. If Jered Weaver appeared tense in the dugout, it’s because a similar start went for naught last week against the Nationals. Luckily, Joe Smith eased his worries with a perfect ninth inning, earning a second consecutive save.

C.J. Wilson is looking for more than a win tonight. He aims to give the Angels their first winning record since Opening Day 2013, and given Wilson’ track record against the Indians that isn’t too much of a stretch.

Pitching Matchup– C.J. Wilson (3-2, 3.69 ERA) vs. Zach McAllister (3-1, 3.14 ERA)

Lost in talk of Weaver’s declining velocity and Garrett Richards’ stellar season is Wilson’s consistency over his last four starts. He’s allowed seven runs in 26 innings since opening week, when he was at Seattle’s mercy. Although he allowed two runs or less in his three victories, Wilson’s offense handed put up at least nine runs each time.

Wilson’s 2.54 ERA is his lowest against any American League opponent. In seven starts, the left-hander three wins in 60 1/3 innings with a 1.028 WHIP. He hasn’t allowed more than two runs since 2010.

Zach McAllister is starting on three days’ rest after another starter was moved to the bullpen. Still, he threw a season-low 75 pitches in against San Francisco last Sunday and has won his only two starts against the Angels.

Walk offs:

Aybar has raised his batting average by 100 points (.292) over the last 11 games.
Since he joined the team full-time, the Angels are 9-3 when Howie Kendrick bats leadoff.
Cleveland has committed 17 errors in their last 16 games.

TV: 4:05 p.m. PT, Fox Sports West, Sports Time Ohio

Radio: KLAA 830, WTAM 1100