Angels Extend Winning Streak to Eight with 7-4 Victory Over Marlins
On Friday night, Taylor Ward launched his 15th home run, leading the Los Angeles Angels to a 7-4 victory over the Miami Marlins, marking their eighth consecutive win.
Ward's solo shot in the second inning was part of a remarkable performance during the Angels' recent 9-2 road trip, where he has hit seven home runs, including two grand slams. Jorge Soler also contributed with his seventh homer, helping the Angels achieve at least two home runs in a franchise-record seven straight games. This streak extends to 13 consecutive games, the longest active streak in Major League Baseball.
In the fourth inning, Ward added a sacrifice fly, while Logan O'Hoppe delivered an RBI double, pushing the Angels to a 3-0 lead.
The sixth inning saw a series of events that included catcher’s interference, a hit-by-pitch, and a sacrifice fly with the bases loaded, extending the Angels' lead to 6-0.
Yusei Kikuchi (1-4) showcased an impressive performance, pitching 5 2/3 scoreless innings. He allowed seven hits and four walks while striking out five batters, securing his first win in 11 starts this season. In the ninth inning, Kenley Jansen faced some challenges, walking two batters but ultimately earning his 11th save in as many opportunities.
On the other side, Miami's Sandy Alcantara (2-7) struggled through 5 1/3 innings, surrendering six runs—five earned—along with two walks and six strikeouts.
Eric Wagaman stood out for Miami with three hits, including his fourth home run of the season in the seventh inning and a two-run single in the eighth.
Kyle Stowers also made an impact with an RBI double among his three hits. He is currently on a 20-game on-base streak and has recorded hits in ten consecutive games.
Hunter Strickland took over for Kikuchi with two outs and the bases loaded in the sixth. Liam Hicks hit a soft grounder that shortstop Zach Neto charged, making a close throw to first base to get Hicks out.
Ward's home run marked his ninth consecutive game with an extra-base hit, tying him with Darin Erstad (1998) for the club record.
Looking ahead, Miami's Cal Quantrill (3-4, 6.47 ERA) is set to pitch against the Angels' José Soriano (3-4, 3.57) on Saturday.
