The Los Angeles Angels were hoping to pick up a quick series win over the first-place Texas Rangers after taking the first game of the three-game series. Unfortunately, the formidable offense of the Rangers made itself known on Saturday en route to a 9-2 drubbing of the Halos.
Michael Young got the Rangers on top early with a two-out RBI single in the top of the first inning. The second inning proved to be the back-breaker, as Angels starter Ervin Santana let things get out of hand in a hurry. The Rangers plated five runs in the second inning and Mike Napoli and Yorvit Torrealba opened the frame with back-to-back homers to quickly make it 3-0 Texas. Ian Kinsler added an RBI double and Adrian Beltre followed up with his 18th home run of the year, putting the Rangers on top 6-0 and knocking Santana out of the game.
Napoli hit his second home run of the game in the top of the third to make it 7-0 before the Angels finally got on the board in the bottom of the third. Mike Trout -- naturally -- came through with an RBI single to make it 7-1 before Torii Hunter struck out and Albert Pujols lined into a double play to end the inning.
Hunter got the Angels a run closer with a two-out RBI single in the bottom of the fifth, but Ian Kinsler belted another two-run homer in the eighth to officially put the game out of reach.
Santana fell to 4-10 after giving up six runs on eight hits in just 1.2 innings, moving his ERA back up to 6.00. Yu Darvish improved to 11-6 as he held the Angels to two runs on three hits and four walks, while striking out 11.
The Angels will hope to win the rubber game on Sunday behind the returning Dan Haren. It won't be easy, as they'll have to deal with All-Star pitcher Matt Harrison, who has been Texas' best starter this year.
For all news and information regarding the Los Angeles Angels, please visit Halos Heaven. For updates and perspective on the Texas Rangers, head on over to Lone Star Ball or stop by SB Nation Dallas. You can also check out everything we have to offer at Baseball Nation.
