Taylor Ward's 4 RBIs and José Soriano's gem led the Angels to an 8-2 win over the Phillies on July 20, but an injury to Nolan Schanuel tempered the victory.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The Los Angeles Angels put it all together on Sunday, dismantling the Philadelphia Phillies 8-2 to secure a crucial series victory on the road. Behind a stellar outing from José Soriano and an offensive explosion led by Taylor Ward, the Halos looked dominant. However, the celebration was tempered by an early exit from first baseman Nolan Schanuel, who left the game after being hit by a pitch on the wrist, leaving fans holding their breath.
Taylor Ward was the offensive star, driving in 4 runs, including a bases-clearing double in the second inning that broke the game wide open.
The Angels' bats came alive at Citizens Bank Park, chasing Phillies starter Ranger Suárez after just 4 1/3 innings. The big blow came early, with Taylor Ward stepping to the plate with the bases loaded in the second and lacing a double to clear them, giving the Angels a commanding 4-0 lead. Ward wasn't done, adding another RBI double in the seventh to cap his four-RBI day. The offense was a team effort, with Mike Trout patiently drawing a bases-loaded walk and Zach Neto chipping in with an RBI single, showcasing the kind of relentless pressure this lineup can apply when it clicks.
While the offense provided the fireworks, José Soriano (7-7) delivered the stability on the mound. The right-hander was masterful through seven innings, allowing just two runs while scattering six hits and striking out five. He kept the potent Phillies lineup off balance all afternoon, earning a well-deserved win. Manager Ron Washington then turned to the bullpen, and Carson Fulmer slammed the door shut in the ninth, inducing a lineout from Max Kepler with a 94.2 mph sinker to seal the 8-2 victory.
The win was bittersweet due to a scary moment in the first inning when Nolan Schanuel was struck on the wrist by a pitch and had to leave the game. While the team awaits an official update, his absence created an opportunity for LaMonte Wade Jr., who stepped up in a big way. After taking over at first base, Wade Jr. launched a solo home run in the sixth inning, a moment celebrated on the team's social media. It was a classic 'next man up' performance, but the team's long-term success could hinge on the severity of Schanuel's injury.
The Angels leave Philadelphia with a hard-fought series win and a jolt of offensive confidence. At 48-50, they're still hovering just below .500, but a dominant performance against a quality opponent is exactly the kind of momentum they need. All eyes will now be on the medical report for Nolan Schanuel's wrist, as his health will be a critical factor for the Halos' lineup moving forward.
