Page’s Weekly LA Angels Predictions: Week Five

Saturday, May 6 vs. Astros

Probables: JC Ramirez vs. Lance McCullers Jr.

The Angels will face right-handed pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. in a much easier matchup than Friday’s game. In six games this season, McCullers Jr. owns a 2-1 record with a 4.08 ERA. He is coming off an exceptional outing. On Monday, he threw 6.1 innings and allowed two runs. He allowed two walks as well. McCullers Jr. struck out more than half of the hitters he faced, an amazing ten batters. No Angels with at least five at-bats have higher than a .250 average against McCullers Jr., who has absolutely owned Mike Trout thus far in his career. Trout is 1-15 (.067) against McCullers Jr. with eight strikeouts and three walks. While that one hit did come as a home run, Trout will need to figure out McCullers Jr. if the Angels want to stand a chance on Saturday.

JC Ramirez will get the call for the Angels. He has been a pleasant surprise this season, filling in for the injured Garrett Richards. In his first start, he allowed five runs over five innings, but has since hit a stride. In his three starts since, Ramirez is 2-0 and owns a 2.55 ERA and has arguably the best Angels starter. He has struck out 25 batters compared to five walks.

Ramirez has been reliable the past few weeks, and allowed three runs over six innings to this Houston offense when they last faced each other. If he can replicate that, the Angels offense should be able to do the rest and get the win.

Prediction- Angels 4, Astros 3 in extras