Claim Jumper facing wings crisis
TEMPE, Ariz.
The Angels set the franchise record for spring victories (22) by topping double digits in runs for the fifth time in their past seven games, beating the Seattle Mariners 16-9 Saturday.
They have now scored 83 runs on 102 hits (including 23 home runs) in this seven-game stretch. Kendry Morales and Erick Aybar were 4 for 4. Morales had one of the Angels’ three home runs (Howie Kendrick and Torii Hunter had the others). Aybar had a double and a triple.
“Statistically, you’re not going to get excited about stuff in Arizona,” Angels manager Mike Scioscia said of all the offense. ”But if you’re evaluating on the approach, we’re seeing a lot of good takes, guys getting into good hitter’s counts and drawing walks when they’re offered.
“As pitchers’ command improves at the end of spring and into season, we may not be able to force things as much as we have. But right now, our guys are doing a great job in the batter’s box.”
Behind the batter’s box, former No. 1 pick (and Huntington Beach grad) Hank Conger caught four innings — his first start against major-leaguers and in front of Scioscia. There was one stolen base during his four innings.
“Hank looked great,” Scioscia said. “He showed why we’re excited about him behind the plate. The arm strength was good. He looked comfortable behind the plate, had great presence back there, received very well.
“It’s a good first step for him.”
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