Angels defeat Red Sox 7-6 on June 2, 2025, after a historic 3-HR first inning at Fenway. Mike Trout shines, passing Tim Salmon on Angels' all-time hits list.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What a Monday, Halos fans! The Angels didn't just win; they made a statement at Fenway Park, exploding for a historic first inning and holding on for a nail-biting 7-6 victory over the Red Sox. The big story? Mike Trout is officially *back*, collecting three hits, including a crucial homer, and etching his name further into Angels royalty by passing Tim Salmon for second on the franchise's all-time hits list.
Three home runs in the first inning at Fenway Park? The Angels just became the *first team ever* to do it. Ever.
The Angels came out swinging – literally. Before the Fenway faithful could even settle in with their chowder, Zach Neto launched a leadoff homer. Then, after a walk and a single, Mike Trout stepped up and did what Mike Trout does: crush a three-run bomb. But the Halos weren't done. Jo Adell followed with a solo shot of his own, making it 5-0 before an out was even recorded, and the team tacked on another run to make it 6-0. This wasn't just a hot start; it was historic. The Angels became the first team in the long, storied history of Fenway Park to hit three home runs in the first inning. Richard Fitts, the unfortunate Red Sox starter, was left reeling.
Mike Trout's first-inning blast was just the beginning of his stellar night. He finished 3-for-4 with those three crucial RBIs, looking every bit the superstar we know and love after his recent return from the IL. That bone bruise in his left knee? Seems like a distant memory, as he's now a sizzling 8-for-14 since coming back. The cherry on top? His three hits pushed his career total to 1,675, moving him past the legendary Tim Salmon into sole possession of second place on the Angels' all-time hits list. What a night for #27! Not to be overshadowed, Jo Adell decided one Fenway homer wasn't enough, launching another solo shot in the sixth inning for his second of the game. That's the kind of power display that can carry a team.
While the offense grabbed the headlines, the pitching staff did just enough to secure the W. Ryan Zeferjahn picked up the win with a scoreless seventh, a crucial bridge in a tight game. And when things got hairy late, Kenley Jansen came in to slam the door for his 11th save of the season, though the Red Sox certainly made things interesting with a late rally. Speaking of the pitching staff and roster, there was some movement on Monday. The Angels placed third baseman Yoán Moncada and reliever Robert Stephenson on the injured list. To fill their spots, outfielder Matthew Lugo was recalled from Triple-A Salt Lake – a quick return for him after being optioned for Trout – and lefty Sam Aldegheri gets the call from Double-A Rocket City. Aldegheri has been solid in the minors, posting a 4.34 ERA with 48 strikeouts in 47 innings. It'll be interesting to see how these new faces contribute.
This was the kind of win that energizes a team and its fanbase. A historic offensive outburst, a superstar reclaiming his throne, and a gritty team effort to seal the deal. With Trout looking like his old self and power up and down the lineup, the Angels are a dangerous team. Let's carry this momentum forward as the road trip continues!