Nolasco is rocked early as Boston rolls

MOOKIE BETTS had a single and a double in the Red Sox 6-2 win Friday over the Angels (Flickr/Keith Allison photo).

In contrast to Thursday’s fast start by the Los Angeles Angels, it was a disastrous first inning Friday against the Boston Red Sox in Anaheim. The visitors jumped all over starter Ricky Nolasco for five runs en route to a 6-2 win.

In losing, the Angels saw their record droop to 47-51. They retain a slender hold on third place in the American League West, by one percentage point over the Texas Rangers. It was the Halos’ fourth loss in six games since the All-Star break.

Nolasco (4-11) lasted four innings, and was tagged for nine hits and six home runs. He struck out one batter and walked none. The bullpen was more effective, giving up no hits and just one run over the last five innings.

Martin Maldonado was the hitting star for the Angels, with a single and his 11th home run of the season. Mike Trout was 0-for-2, but reached twice on walks.

For the Red Sox (55-43), Mookie Betts had two hits, including a double. He drove in one run and scored another.

The Angels will take on the Sox again on Saturday with J.C. Ramirez (8-8) on the mound for the Orange County team.