Angels fall to Rangers 6-3 on July 31, 2025, as Adolis García's late homer spoils a strong José Soriano start. Read how the loss impacts the Halos' new bullpen.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just as momentum was building, the Angels' three-game winning streak came to a halt Thursday night at the Big A. A tough 6-3 loss to the division-rival Texas Rangers saw a promising start unravel late, dropping the Halos to 53-56 on the season. While the final score was a disappointment, the day wasn't without a silver lining, as the front office made a significant move to bolster the bullpen for the stretch run.
Nolan Schanuel’s two-run homer in the eighth was his 13th of the season, a powerful swing that provided a brief spark of hope.
For seven innings, it felt like the Angels were in control. Starting pitcher José Soriano was dealing, striking out seven Rangers and allowing just two earned runs in a stellar outing. He went toe-to-toe with Texas ace Nathan Eovaldi, who was equally effective, holding the Angels to a single run. But the game turned in the eighth inning when Adolis García launched a two-run homer, breaking the game open for Texas. Marcus Semien also had a big night for the visitors, going 3-for-5. Despite the loss, Soriano's performance was a major positive, showing the kind of top-end stuff the Angels need from their rotation.
Just before the game, the Angels addressed a key area of need by acquiring right-hander Luis García and lefty Andrew Chafin from the Washington Nationals. This move injects two experienced, high-leverage arms into a bullpen that has been inconsistent. In return, the Angels sent prospects Jake Eder and Sam Brown to Washington. To make room on the 40-man roster, the team designated José Quijada for assignment. The trade is a clear signal that the front office believes this team can still make a push, and fans are eager to see how the new duo will change the late-inning landscape.
Even in a loss, there were moments to cheer for. First baseman Nolan Schanuel continued his impressive season, crushing his 13th home run in the bottom of the eighth—a two-run shot that also scored Mike Trout and momentarily cut the lead in half. Luis Rengifo also contributed with an RBI single earlier in the game. These offensive contributions are all the more crucial with key bats like Jorge Soler and Chris Taylor still on the injured list. To fill the gaps, the team has recently recalled INF Scott Kingery and OF Gustavo Campero from Triple-A, providing necessary depth as the team navigates injuries and a grueling schedule.
Tonight's loss stings, especially against a rival, but the narrative is bigger than one game. With fresh arms in the bullpen and a core that continues to fight, the Angels have an opportunity to bounce back immediately. The key will be integrating García and Chafin effectively and getting the offense to provide consistent support. The Halos will look to start a new streak tomorrow and prove that this team's story for 2025 is far from over.
