Jo Adell smashed a three-run homer in the eighth inning, and Carson Fulmer threw four hitless innings to help the Los Angeles Angels secure a 3-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Sunday.
Adell, visibly excited, hit his 15th home run of the season off Austin Voth (2-4), who entered the game to replace the injured Ryne Stanek.
“I was really pumped,” Adell said. “It was a significant moment. The series has been tough. Our travel schedule back from Chicago was tough too. Competing against a team like this, who leads our division, was pretty special. I enjoyed it.”
After losing 11-0 to Seattle on Thursday, Los Angeles bounced back to win three consecutive games against the division-leading Mariners. Seattle’s lead over the Houston Astros has shrunk to just one game, and the teams will face off in Seattle right after the All-Star break.
Fulmer started the game strong for the Angels, retiring 14 batters in a row before a fielding error by rookie second baseman Keston Hiura ended the hitless streak in the fifth inning. Fulmer struck out seven and was replaced by the bullpen after hitting Victor Robles to load the bases.
“I was able to get ahead, which is something I’m really focused on this year,” Fulmer said. “I got into good counts where I could use my changeup and breaking pitches early. I executed a lot of my pitches today and got quick outs. I’m glad to have the opportunity.”
J.P. Crawford ended the Angels’ combined no-hitter bid with a solo home run in the sixth inning.
Hans Crouse (3-0) pitched the eighth inning and earned the win, while Roansy Contreras closed out the game in the ninth for his first save of the season.
All-Star Logan Gilbert pitched seven scoreless innings for Seattle, striking out nine and allowing only two hits on 87 pitches. Because he started in the last game before the break, Gilbert is ineligible to pitch in the All-Star Game. His teammate Andres Munoz was selected to replace him.
