LA Angels News: Andrew Heaney tosses gem when Halos need it most

At risk of a three-game losing streak and missing their best player due to injury, the Angels needed an ace-like performance from Andrew Heaney on Friday against the Astros. The left-hander delivered in a big way.

Heaney allowed a base hit to Alex Bregman in the first inning, hit Yordan Alvarez with a pitch in the fourth inning, and gave up a double to Alvarez in the seventh as the Angels held a 2-0 lead. It was at that moment when manager Joe Maddon opted to go with reliever Aaron Slegers as Heaney had reached 101 pitches in his third time through the batting order.

Unfortunately for Heaney, he would end his great night with a no decision as Slegers gave up a two-run homer to Yuli Gurriel to tie the game. As I type this the game is still tied 2-2 in the top of the 10th inning.

Andrew Heaney’s latest outing came at a time the Angels needed it most.

Heaney finished his outing allowing one earned run on two hits, while striking out ten and walking zero batters through 6.1 innings pitched.

The Angels are in a tough stretch at the moment. Friday’s contest was the second of ten-straight road games, in a stretch of 23 games in 24 days.

On top of that the Halos could be without Mike Trout for some time who’s considered day-to-day. The center fielder was a late scratch after getting hit in the elbow on Thursday. Anthony Rendon, Max Stassi, Juan Lagares, and Felix Pena are all on the 10-Day IL while outfielder Dexter Fowler will miss the season with a torn ACL.

After Thursday’s starter Alex Cobb lasted just 2.2 innings, Heaney delivered arguably the start of the season for the Halos considering the circumstances.

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The outing from Heaney lowers his ERA to 4.35 on the season. It didn’t end the way he would’ve liked, but it’s a great sign and step forward for both Heaney and the Angels.