BREAKING: The Los Angeles Angels secured a thrilling 11-5 victory over the Oakland Athletics on July 16, 2023, thanks to a powerful performance from Jo Adell. Adell kicked off the game’s excitement with a three-run homer in the first inning, followed by a crucial RBI single in the tenth that ignited a six-run rally.
In a game that saw the Angels fight to avoid a three-game sweep, Adell’s early power was complemented by a stellar pitching performance from Kenley Jansen, who struck out two batters in a scoreless ninth inning. With this performance, Jansen registered his 1,268th career strikeout, moving him to fourth place on the all-time list for relievers.
The Angels entered the tenth inning trailing 5-4, with automatic runner Mike Trout advancing to third base on a passed ball. Taylor Ward walked, setting the stage for Adell’s decisive single to center that put the Angels ahead 6-5. Christian Moore added to the lead with a ground ball that drove in a run, while Luis Rengifo followed with a two-run triple off Ben Bowden. Zach Neto capped the scoring with a massive 436-foot homer to left-center, marking his 21st of the season.
Earlier in the game, rookie Nick Kurtz hit his 25th homer in the third inning, followed by back-to-back homers from Shea Langeliers, who hit his 26th, and Lawrence Butler, who brought the A’s within one run with his 17th homer in the sixth. The Athletics tied the game at 5-5 when Luis Urías delivered a clutch two-out RBI single.
Key moments included Jansen loading the bases in the ninth but successfully getting Butler to pop out in foul territory, preserving the Angels’ chance for victory.
The Angels now prepare for a three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds starting Monday, with Victor Mederos (0-0, 5.63 ERA) set to take the mound. Meanwhile, the Athletics will face the Minnesota Twins on Tuesday night with Jacob Lopez (6-6, 3.30 ERA) pitching the series opener.
This game not only highlighted the resilience of the Angels but also marked a milestone for Jansen, solidifying his legacy in Major League Baseball. Fans can expect continued excitement as the season progresses. Stay tuned for updates on both teams as they head into their respective matchups.
