Angels vs Diamondbacks Preview: Battle of the Bullpens Sparks Week 64

The Angels are hurting right now. They're 29-44 and just dropped their last two games. But here's the thing—they're not giving up. Yesterday in Phoenix, Mike Trout launched a massive home run to right field. It rocketed 371 feet and tied the game at 2-2. Los Angeles kept fighting until the ninth inning when Luis Walton smashed one over the wall for a 3-4 loss. The Angels showed guts yesterday. Now they need Sam Aldegheri to throw strikes and keep the bats hot. Arizona's coming in hot with two wins in a row. This game matters huge for LA's playoff hopes.

Eduardo Rodriguez is Arizona's starter tonight, and he's got a 3.38 ERA this season. The Diamondbacks are 37-35 and riding a two-game winning streak. They're strong at home with a 22-14 record at Chase Field. Yesterday's win came down to the seventh inning when Pavin Smith crushed a 384-foot home run to right. That blast gave Arizona the lead. Then Jose Perdomo doubled down the line and Marte scored the final run. Rodriguez needs to match that energy on the mound. The Angels can't let Arizona keep stacking runs. This pitching matchup will decide if Los Angeles stays in this series fight.

Los Angeles has to find a way to win away from home. Their pitching staff is banged up—Grayson Rodriguez left Sunday's game with back tightness, and Yusei Kikuchi hasn't thrown since late April because of shoulder problems. Jose Soriano is their ace right now with a 2.79 ERA. He's been solid his last two starts but walks too many batters. Jorge Soler is still hurt with an oblique strain, so the Angels are missing power at DH. Mike Trout keeps showing up with huge swings. If the Angels' bats stay hot like yesterday and Aldegheri throws strikes, they can steal this one in Arizona. The question is simple: Can Sam Aldegheri match Rodriguez's stuff?