Rays: Up Next

© St. Petersburg Times
published July 5, 2002

SCOUTING REPORT: The Angels have been one of the biggest success stories of the first half, challenging Seattle and Oakland in what should be a dandy AL West race.

They have led the league in hitting and are in the top four in runs despite an absence of power. They have better-than-expected pitching with veteran additions Aaron Sele and Kevin Appier and crisp defense.

Darin Erstad has bounced back from a subpar 2001 to reclaim his place among the game's top offensive players, and Tim Salmon has come back from a career-worst effort to be a steady contributor. They join steady third baseman Troy Glaus, sparkplug David Eckstein and All-Star outfielder Garret Anderson to provide a potent offense.

The rotation has been solid, with Jarrod Washburn (who has won nine straight) and Ramon Ortiz benefiting from the veteran help. John Lackey, a second-round pick in 1999, replaced Scott Schoenweis in the rotation. Closer Troy Percival has 12 straight saves and 20 of 22. The Angels are reportedly looking for setup help, with ex-Ray Roberto Hernandez among the possibilities.

TAMPA BAY CONNECTIONS: Bullpen coach Bobby Ramos is a former Rays minor-league manager. ... Former Rays pitcher Mickey Callaway is with Triple-A Salt Lake.

ALL-TIME SERIES: The Angels lead the series 26-18 and won seven of nine last season. The Rays are 12-9 at Edison Field.

WHO'S HOT: Glaus is 6-for-13 over the past five games.

WHO'S NOT: Anderson entered Thursday on an 0-for-13 streak.