In a game against the Kansas City Royals, Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout hit back-to-back home runs to lead the Los Angeles Angels to a 5-2 victory. This marked the sixth time this season and the 28th time overall that Ohtani and Trout homered in the same game. The Angels have a perfect 6-0 record this season and a strong 20-8 overall record when both players hit home runs.
Both managers, Phil Nevin of the Angels and Matt Quatraro of the Royals, recognized the impact that Ohtani and Trout have on the game. Nevin praised their ability to carry a team, while Quatraro acknowledged the trouble they have caused pitchers over the years.
Ohtani’s performance in the game ended a streak of six consecutive games in which he recorded an extra-base hit, a walk, and a run. This achievement has only been accomplished by Babe Ruth (seven times) and Barry Bonds (six) in MLB history.
Pitcher Tyler Anderson earned the win for the Angels, allowing two runs on six hits in five innings. Carlos Estevez secured his 19th save in 19 opportunities.
Zack Greinke took the loss for the Royals, giving up four runs on eight hits in five innings.
After a disappointing loss the previous day, the Angels were relieved to come away with a series victory against the Royals. Mike Trout emphasized the importance of turning the page and bouncing back after a tough game.
The Royals scored their first run in the second inning, but the Angels quickly tied the game in the fourth. Ohtani’s two-run homer in the fifth, followed by Trout’s solo shot on the next pitch, gave the Angels a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. Jared Walsh added a solo home run in the ninth to extend the lead.
In other news, Royals pitcher Brad Keller threw a bullpen session as he progresses in his recovery from a right shoulder impingement. The Royals also made several transactions, including selecting the contract of pitcher Brooks Kriske from Triple-A Omaha and designating Mike Mayers for assignment.
Looking ahead, the Angels will have a day off before facing their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, in a two-game series. The Royals will travel to Detroit for a three-game series against the Tigers, with Jordan Lyles and Reese Olson slated to start the first game.
Major League Baseball scoreboard from Sunday, June 18, 2023:
Baltimore 6, Chicago (NL) 3
Cincinnati 9, Houston 7 (10)
Philadelphia 3, Oakland 2
San Diego 5, Tampa Bay 4
Cleveland 12, Arizona 3
Boston 6, New York (AL) 2
Boston 4, New York (AL) 1
Detroit 6, Minnesota 4
Texas 11, Toronto 7
Seattle 5, Chicago (AL) 1
Atlanta 14, Colorado 6
Miami 4, Washington 2
St. Louis 8, New York (NL) 7
Milwaukee 5, Pittsburgh 2
San Francisco 7, Los Angeles (NL) 3
