Shohei Ohtani allows 4 earned runs, takes the loss in the Astros’ 7-5 win over the spiraling Angels

Shohei Ohtani’s struggles continue as the Los Angeles Angels suffer a 7-5 defeat at the hands of the Houston Astros. Ohtani, dealing with finger pain for the third consecutive start, allowed four earned runs on five hits before leaving the game in the sixth inning. Mauricio Dubon’s tiebreaking two-run single sealed the victory for the Astros.

Ohtani’s ongoing minor hand issues, including a fingertip blister and a cracked nail last month, have hindered his performance on the mound. The star player, facing uncertainties about his future with the trade deadline approaching, is battling numerous challenges that prevent him from reaching his unique pitching capabilities.

In the sixth inning, Ohtani walked Corey Julks and consulted with the Angels’ training staff before being pulled from the game due to his persistent hand problems. Ohtani, frustrated with his performance, expressed his concern about the injury’s significance and the team’s collective frustration over their recent inability to win games.

Despite his struggles as a pitcher, Ohtani remained in the game as a hitter and delivered two singles at the plate. However, the Angels’ losing streak extended to six games, with 10 losses in their last 11 outings.

Angels manager Phil Nevin noticed something amiss with Ohtani’s performance in the sixth inning and decided to check on him. Although Ohtani’s finger was not visibly damaged, he mentioned sensitivity in that area, leading to his early exit.

After a successful All-Star break in Seattle, Ohtani returned to Anaheim to face questions about his future with the team. The Angels’ recent slump has diminished their chances of making the playoffs and increased speculation about a potential trade involving Ohtani, who will become a free agent after the season.

Astros manager Dusty Baker noted that Ohtani appeared off his usual form, speculating that the blister might still be bothering him. Despite Houston’s success in scoring five runs against Ohtani, the pitcher did not look like himself.

Following Ohtani’s departure, the Astros took advantage of the Angels’ bullpen, with Mauricio Dubon and Jose Abreu contributing key hits. The defending World Series champions managed to hold on to their lead, securing the victory with closer Ryan Pressly striking out Ohtani and the rest of the side in the ninth inning for his 21st save.

The Angels’ offense saw Mickey Moniak record three hits and Taylor Ward hit a home run. However, the team removed Luis Rengifo from the game after he committed an error and failed to hustle, resulting in a run for the Astros. Rengifo’s removal followed a conversation with manager Phil Nevin.

Both Rengifo and Mike Moustakas acknowledged their mistakes after the game. Moustakas had a mishap with a bunt that set up Dubon’s tiebreaking hit.

In terms of pitching, J.P. France started for the Astros and allowed two earned runs before exiting in the fifth inning. Phil Maton picked up the win after recording two outs in the fifth.

In other news, Trey Cabbage made his major league debut as a pinch-hitter for the Angels, but was quickly replaced by a pinch-runner after grounding into a forceout. Left-hander Framber Valdez chose to stay home from the All-Star festivities due to the decision by Astros owner Jim Crane and general manager Dana Brown to not allow him to participate. Valdez expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision and used the break to spend time with his family.

Regarding injuries, the Astros’ José Altuve engaged in soft-toss hitting in the batting cage while Michael Brantley continued his recovery from shoulder surgery. As for the Angels, Anthony Rendon went on the injured list for the third time this season due to a bruised shin. Outfielder Jo Adell and rookie pitcher Sam Bachman also joined the injured list.

In the next game, Framber Valdez, with the best ERA in the majors, will start for the Astros, aiming to improve his impressive record of 9-4 against the Angels. The Angels will counter with Reid Detmers, whose performance has been better than his numbers suggest.

Source: Associated Press (AP)

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