Anaheim, Calif. — Taylor Ward’s two-run homer and Griffin Canning’s seven solid innings propelled the Los Angeles Angels to a 5-1 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Monday night.
Ward’s blast to right field in the first inning gave the Angels an early 2-0 lead. His defensive prowess also shone with a spectacular leaping catch at the wall in the ninth inning, reminiscent of his heroics at Dodger Stadium just days before.
Angels manager Ron Washington praised Ward’s impactful performance, noting, “Very poetic. We needed his contribution in the first inning and his crucial play in the ninth.”
Contributing to the offense, Zach Neto, Luis Rengifo, and Willie Calhoun each tallied two hits, with Neto crossing home plate twice.
The Angels, typically averaging 4.03 runs per game (ranking 25th in MLB), found more than enough support behind Canning’s stellar outing.
Canning (3-8) allowed one earned run over seven innings, striking out five while yielding just five hits, including a solo home run to Tyler Nevin in the second inning. He consistently pitched ahead in the count, a strategy he emphasized post-game: “I’m proud of executing that. It’s been a focus this season, and tonight it paid off.”
Oakland struggled as Luis Medina (1-3) endured a tough outing, exiting after three innings having surrendered four runs (three earned).
Reflecting on Medina’s performance, Athletics manager Mark Kotsay lamented, “He lacked command tonight, which made it tough. We’ll analyze and make adjustments.”
In contrast, Canning delivered one of his strongest performances of the year, impressing Washington with his control. “He was outstanding,” Washington remarked. “His first-pitch strikes were on point. He maintained control throughout, even nearing 100 pitches.”
Before the game, Los Angeles Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh attended Angels batting practice, engaging with Washington and players in a show of support and camaraderie.
UP NEXT:
Athletics: RHP Mitch Spence (4-3, 3.86 ERA) is 0-1 with a 4.38 ERA over his last four starts after he went 1-1 with a 2.08 ERA through his first three starts. Angels: LHP Tyler Anderson (6-7, 2.48 ERA) will take the mound with a 2.08 ERA.
