The Angels’ Nolan Schanuel begins to run the bases as he watches the flight of his solo home run during the first inning of their game against the San Diego Padres on Wednesday night at Angel Stadium. The Angels won, 3-2, to sweep the three-game series. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
In a thrilling matchup at Angel Stadium, the Los Angeles Angels secured a 3-2 victory over the San Diego Padres. The game was marked by standout performances from Nolan Schanuel and Zach Neto, who both delivered crucial home runs.
Schanuel’s Redemption
Schanuel, who had been mired in an 0-for-18 slump, broke out in a big way. In the first inning, he connected on a slider from Padres pitcher Dylan Cease, sending the ball soaring over the right-center wall and hitting the auxiliary scoreboard. Schanuel’s solo shot provided an early spark for the Angels.
Neto’s Clutch Blast
Neto added to the Angels’ lead in the second inning with a two-run homer. His blast came at a critical moment, putting the Halos ahead by three runs. Neto’s celebration as he rounded the bases reflected the team’s determination to secure the win.
Machado’s Departure
Unfortunately for the Padres, their star third baseman, Manny Machado, suffered a strained right hip flexor during the game. Machado appeared to hurt his upper right leg while running out an attempted double play ball in the fourth inning. He left the game and was looked at by a trainer before gingerly heading back to the first-base dugout.
Stellar Pitching
Angels starter José Soriano continued his impressive form, going six innings and allowing just two runs (one earned). His consistency has been a bright spot for the team. Matt Moore closed out the game in the ninth inning, securing his first save since 2022.
Tatis Jr.’s Four-Hit Game
Despite the loss, Fernando Tatis Jr. had a standout performance for the Padres, collecting four hits. It was his seventh four-hit game of his career and the first since 2021. However, the Padres dropped their fourth straight road game, a rare occurrence for them this season.
Angels’ Home Sweep
The victory marked the Angels’ first three-game series sweep at home since last July when they achieved the feat against the Yankees. Coming into the series, the Angels had struggled at Angel Stadium, but this win signaled a turnaround.
In summary, the homers by Schanuel and Neto propelled the Angels to a hard-fought victory over the Padres, while Machado’s injury added a somber note to the game. The Halos will look to build on this momentum as the season progresses.
