Royals at Angels
Now that the pomp and circumstance of opening day is finished, Los Angeles can focus on trying to win the World Series for the first time in a decade. The Angels definitely went all-in for 2012, signing slugger Albert Pujols to a 10-year, $240 million deal in the off-season. Pujols went 0-for-3 with a walk in his Angels’ debut Friday. Kansas City counts on its continued rebuilding effort to pay dividends, after winning more than 70 games last season for only the second time since 2003.
The Royals found success early in 2011 (14-12 in April) and late (15-10 in September), and look to build around a youthful core that includes first baseman Eric Hosmer and third baseman Mike Moustakas. Kansas City is the youngest team in the majors, with its 25-man active roster an average age of 27 years, 155 days. Bolstered by the acquisition of Pujols, the Angels vaulted onto the short list of World Series contenders. Former Texas hurler C.J. Wilson joins the rotation, hoping to help the Angels unseat his former team in the American League West.
TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, Fox
PITCHING MATCHUP: Royals RH Luke Hochevar (2011: 11-11, ERA 4.68) vs. Angels RH Dan Haren (2011: 16-10, ERA 3.17)
Two years removed from a 7-13 campaign with a 6.55 ERA, Hochevar took steps toward consistency last season. The right-hander set career-best marks with 31 starts, 198 innings pitched and 128 strikeouts. The progression continued in spring training as Hochevar struck out 21 in 19 innings and finished 3-1 with a 2.84 ERA.
Haren made his return to the AL memorable, walking fewer hitters (33) than starts (34) and pitching three shutouts. The right-hander is 4-1 lifetime against the Royals with a 1.91 ERA in eight starts.
WALK-OFFS
1. Kansas City’s Jonathan Broxton takes over the closer’s role after Joakim Soria underwent season-ending Tommy John surgery.
2. Kendrys Morales returned to the Angels lineup in Friday’s season opener, his first action since breaking his ankle celebrating a walk-off grand slam on May 29, 2010.
3. The Royals won seven of the 10 matchups with the Angels last season, but the Angels won the season opener Friday 5-0.