Page’s Weekly LA Angels Predictions: Week Three

Wednesday April 19, Angels @ Astros

Probables: JC Ramirez vs. Mike Fiers

In the third game of the series, the Astros will be sending out Mike Fiers to contest the Angels offense. He was excellent in his first start of the season. However, he allows five earned runs in his last start. He only gave up six hits, but two of those were home runs. He has been a victim of the long ball throughout his career. Five Angels batters have home runs against him, while both CJ Cron and Albert Pujols have two big flies when facing Fiers. Mike Trout only has three career hits against Fiers (in 12 at-bats) but has also drawn three walks and taking him deep once. His other two hits were both doubles, as well.

In what is supposed to be Garret Richards’ spot of the rotation, the Angels will be sending out JC Ramirez as Richards is still on the disabled list with bicep issues. Ramirez made his first career start Friday night against the Royals. He was rocked for five runs in five innings of work. He struck out three batters while allowing a home run and two walks. Ramirez is undoubtedly better out of the bullpen, but has been dubbed as the sixth starter for the Angels. With arms like Yusmeiro Petit and Bud Norris in the bullpen, it is a questionable move by Mike Scioscia to have Ramirez start in place of Richards. Hopefully, he fares better in his second start than his first.

The Angels will need Ramirez to throw a quality start to win this one, but could explode for multiple home runs against Fiers.

Prediction: Angels 8 Astros 4