Post-Game Report: Angels v. Rangers (9/21/08)

After a three games sweep of the Texas Rangers, it appears as if John Lackey and the LA Angels are primed for a deep run in October.

With Lackey on the mound against Texas on Sunday afternoon, the Angels cruised to a comfortable 7-3 victory over the Rangers. Lackey, the hometown hero from Abiline, Texas; gave up two hits and struck out a career-high twelve through six shutout innings. Lackey often struggles against the hometown Rangers, and in his previous three starts, he had a 6.75 ERA. However, he was on top his game on Sunday, getting ahead of hitters with all his pitches.

But Lackey couldn’t have been as successful without an offense that produced seven runs on nine hits, while playing in a hitter-friendly park. Both Mark Teixeira and Sean Rodriguez went yard Texas’s Scott Feldman, who allowed six earned runs in the game.

Now, for today’s top three…

Top 3 Angels Performers

1.) Sean Rodriguez, who has never been confused as a power-hitter, homered once and had 3 RBIs. You have to love the Ballpark in Arlington.

2.) Texas native John Lackey looked like the ace of the staff on Sunday afternoon, as he pitched six strong innings and struck out a career high twelve batters. A pretty solid performance overall.

3.) Mark Teixeira had the chance to play in the park he once called home as a member of the Rangers, and he delivered by going 1-for-3 with 2 RBIs.

Jeff Weaver of the Game: Tonight’s Jeff Weaver goes to Brandon Wood, who had a rough afternoon by going 0-for-4 on the afternoon.

Play of the Game: Sean Rodriguez came up to bat in the sixth inning, as the Angels held a 3-0. His three-run home run put the game out of reach and cemented the Halo victory.

What to look for next game: While the Angels have already clinched the division title, they are still dominating their A.L. West opponent in the search for 100 victories. If the Angels can win four out of their final seven than the team will achieve the century mark for the first time in franchise history. Ervin Santana will face off against the Mariners, who have already reach in the century mark in losses.

Next Game: Monday, 7:10 p.m. (FSW)