Halos slide, Dodgers taking off

Angels fans can be forgiven if they are also now fans of the Texas Rangers. That’s because the team from Arlington (19-27) is the only thing keeping the Halos from tumbling into last place in the American League West.

After splitting a double-header with the Twins on Thursday, the Angels have lost seven of 10 games and are 19-25 and in fourth place in the division, seven games out of first.

The first game went well, with Alex Cobb (2-2) pitching a solid start in the Halos’ 7-1 victory. He worked five innings, giving up just four hits and one run. He struck out four batters and walked none.

Phil Gosselin led the offense, hitting a home run and a double, driving in four runs.

“Goose can hit,” said Angels manager Joe Maddon. “It’s not surprising at all. He’s got a live bat. The ball comes off it hot.”

The second game didn’t got so well. The Twins jumped out to a 4-0 first inning lead and were never caught. Griffin Canning (3-3) lasted just two innings and gave up three hits, four runs and walked four batters. Miguel Sano’s grand slam homer was the final dart.

With just three hits, the Angels made the most of what they got, closing to within one run at 4-3 before fading. Jose Rojas’ solo home run was the biggest hit for the home team, which ended up losing 6-3.

The Angels are next in action today (Friday) at the Big A starting a three-game series with the Oakland A’s (25-19).

Albert’s at home in Chavez Ravine

Some folks thought the Dodgers bought a too-used car in signing Albert Pujols to a contract after being released by the Angels. Those folks may be rethinking that after the future Hall of Famer hit a two-run homer in the Dodgers’ 3-2 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday.

The Dodgers have now won eight of nine games and are hoping Albert will give them additional horsepower to catch the San Francisco Giants, who lead the NL West by one game over the San Diego Padres and two over the Dodgers.

“I think Albert would argue that he’s more energized by being a Dodger and being around his teammates than he’s infusing energy into our guys,” said manager Dave Roberts.

The Dodgers will be in the City by the Bay Friday, Saturday and Sunday.