Angels host Mariners on June 8, 2025, aiming for a series win. Tyler Anderson faces a struggling George Kirby (8.56 ERA) in a key AL West showdown.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The stage is set at Angel Stadium for a pivotal divisional matchup as the Los Angeles Angels look to capitalize on their recent momentum and secure a series victory against the Seattle Mariners. After a gritty 5-4 win on Friday night, the Halos have a prime opportunity today with a favorable pitching matchup that could see them gain significant ground in the AL West.
Mariners starter George Kirby brings a staggering 0-3 record and 8.56 ERA to the mound, a stat the Angels' offense will be eager to exploit.
The good vibes are still flowing from Friday's contest, a game that saw veteran Kyle Hendricks notch his 100th career victory. It was a true team effort. The bullpen was lights out, with Ryan Zeferjahn, Reid Detmers, and Kenley Jansen combining for three scoreless innings to shut the door. The offense came through in the clutch fifth inning, sparked by a Jo Adell hit-by-pitch and stolen base, followed by a go-ahead RBI double from Chris Taylor and an insurance run from the ever-consistent Nolan Schanuel. That's the kind of baseball that wins divisional games.
Today's pitching matchup heavily favors the home team. Lefty Tyler Anderson gets the ball for the Angels, sporting a solid 2-2 record and a 3.86 ERA. He's been a reliable arm in the rotation all season. On the other side, the Mariners send George Kirby to the hill, and to put it mildly, he's been struggling. With an 0-3 record and a bloated 8.56 ERA, Kirby has been one of the league's biggest disappointments so far. The Angels' hitters have to be licking their chops at this opportunity.
This is a golden chance for the Angels' offense to have a breakout day. Taylor Ward, with his impressive 17 home runs and 42 RBI, provides the power threat in the middle of the lineup. Meanwhile, Nolan Schanuel continues to be a professional hitter, boasting a .274 average and coming off a key RBI single on Friday. If the Halos can show patience, work the count, and take advantage of Kirby's mistakes, they should be able to put up crooked numbers and give Anderson plenty of run support.
A win today isn't just another notch in the belt; it's a statement. Taking two of three from a direct competitor like the Mariners would be a massive boost for the Angels as they fight to climb the AL West ladder. With a favorable matchup and momentum on their side, the Halos have everything they need to send the home crowd happy and build a winning streak.
