Astros Edge Angels 8-7 in Series-Deciding Game at Angel Stadium

The Los Angeles Angels experienced a mixed weekend series, highlighted by an 8-7 loss to the Houston Astros in the rubber game, despite strong performances from their young core. Mauricio Dubón of the Astros homered twice, while Josh Hader maintained a perfect save record, crucially striking out Mike Trout late in the game. For the Angels, Nolan Schanuel had a standout game with three hits and four RBIs, and Logan O'Hoppe continued his hot streak with his third two-run homer in two days, approaching the team record for catchers. However, the Angels' pitching struggled, with starter Kyle Hendricks allowing five runs and reliever Hunter Strickland yielding crucial runs. Earlier, the Angels secured a 9-5 victory over the Boston Red Sox thanks to a four-run eighth inning, including a leadoff homer by Zach Neto and a sacrifice fly by Christian Moore. Despite the individual highlights, the Angels' veterans have not consistently delivered, suggesting the team is still building towards full competitiveness.