The Los Angeles Angels were hoping to pick up back-to-back wins to start their 2012 season, but things didn't quite work out that way. After falling behind early, the Halos were unable to overcome the deficit and ended up taking their first loss of the season, 6-3.
Angels starter Dan Haren was roughed up early, only lasting 5.1 innings while giving up five earned runs on 11 hits and a walk. Two of those hits were solo home runs, to Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas. Luke Hochevar had a better time on the hill for the Royals, shutting down the Angels before giving up two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning.
Albert Pujols picked up his first hit as an Angel, hitting a double off Hochevar. Pujols also struck out once and stranded two while going 1-for-4. Bobby Abreu drove in a pair of runs, first with a double in the seventh and a sacrifice fly in the ninth. Vernon Wells drove in the other Angels run with a groundout RBI in the seventh.
For more news and notes on the Angels, be sure to read Halos Heaven. For updates and perspective regarding the Kansas City Royals, head on over to Royals Review.
