Yusei Kikuchi's gem and a Jo Adell homer led the Angels to a 5-1 win over the Rays on Aug. 5, 2025. Get the full recap of the big win and latest team news.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you think you have this team figured out, the Los Angeles Angels deliver a night of pure, unadulterated fun. Behind a dominant start from Yusei Kikuchi and a moonshot homer from Jo Adell, the Halos secured a convincing 5-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays on Monday, stringing together back-to-back wins and injecting some much-needed energy into the Big A.
Jo Adell sent a baseball 428 feet into the night sky for a two-run homer.
Monday night's formula for success was simple and beautiful: power pitching and power hitting. Yusei Kikuchi was masterful on the mound, carving up the Rays' lineup for six innings. He allowed just one run on four hits while striking out seven, showcasing the ace-like stuff fans have been hoping for. His command was sharp, issuing only two walks. On the offensive side, Jo Adell provided the fireworks with a colossal 428-foot, two-run homer in the second inning that set the tone. But the attack was relentless. Taylor Ward, who continues his All-Star caliber season, drove in two with a key single, while newcomer Bryce Teodosio made a splash with a three-hit night. Even Mike Trout got in on the action with a double and a run scored.
The on-field celebration was tempered by some perplexing off-field news Tuesday. The Angels announced they have placed third baseman Yoán Moncada on the restricted list. The team provided no further details on the reason for the move, leaving fans to speculate. In his place, the Angels recalled outfielder Niko Kavadas from Triple-A Salt Lake. While the team has depth, Moncada's absence creates a significant question mark in the infield moving forward. We'll be monitoring this situation closely as more information becomes available.
Speaking of roster moves, the Angels are already reaping the rewards of their decision to call up Bryce Teodosio. The center fielder, whose contract was selected from Salt Lake on August 2, looked like a seasoned veteran in Monday's game. Teodosio collected three hits and scored a run, providing a spark from the bottom of the order. It’s a fantastic example of the 'next man up' mentality and a positive sign for a farm system that has been working to produce MLB-ready talent. His instant contribution was a key factor in the 5-1 win.
Two wins in a row might not seem like a world-changing streak, but for a team hovering below .500 at 55-58, it's a start. The Halos are relying on their leaders to navigate this part of the season, and Taylor Ward and Nolan Schanuel are answering the call. Ward now has a team-leading 26 homers and 84 RBIs, providing consistent middle-of-the-order thump. Schanuel, meanwhile, continues to be an on-base machine with a .367 OBP. With Kikuchi lowering his ERA to a stellar 3.23, the key pieces are performing. The challenge now is to make it consistent.
Can they make it three in a row? The Angels will send José Soriano to the hill on Tuesday night to try and do just that. Facing the Rays again, the Halos have a chance to secure a series win and build real momentum. With questions swirling around the roster but positive energy flowing on the field, tonight’s game feels like another important test for this scrappy Angels squad.
