Mickey Moniak and Zach Neto both hit home runs and drove in three runs each to help the Los Angeles Angels defeat the Texas Rangers 7-2 on Wednesday night, putting an end to the Rangers’ five-game winning streak.
Neto came close to hitting for the cycle, missing only a triple. Their contributions were crucial for the Angels, who had been struggling with four consecutive losses and eight defeats in their last nine games. Moniak, despite his season struggles with a .198 batting average and five home runs, remains optimistic about improving his performance.
In the game, Moniak’s three-run homer in the second inning gave the Angels a 4-0 lead. Neto followed up with an RBI double in the third inning and a two-run homer in the eighth inning, his 12th of the season.
Angels’ starting pitcher Griffin Canning pitched effectively until the fifth inning when he allowed a two-run homer to Leody Taveras. Despite this setback, relief pitcher Hans Crouse came in and struck out two batters to escape further damage, earning his first win in the Major Leagues.
“It’s a great feeling,” Crouse said, especially since he grew up nearby in Dana Point. “Having my family in the stands made it even more special. I was just focused on doing my job and limiting the opposition’s scoring opportunities.”
Crouse’s efforts helped secure the victory for the Angels, marking a memorable moment in his career.
