The Los Angeles Angels secured a thrilling 5-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics, sweeping the three-game series in dramatic fashion. Zach Neto’s clutch three-run double in the sixth inning proved to be the game-changer, turning the tide in the Angels’ favor.
Earlier in the game, a bizarre play revealed when Oakland’s Kyle McCann failed to touch home plate, despite his teammate Armando Alvarez’s attempts to assist him. The umpire called McCann out, citing a rule that prohibits players from aiding each other while running the bases.
Angels manager Ron Washington, a seasoned veteran with five decades of experience in professional baseball, was astonished by the rare play. “I’ve never witnessed anything like it,” Washington remarked. “It’s a mental error, not a physical one. These are the kinds of mistakes that can cost a team dearly.”
The Athletics had taken an early lead courtesy of Max Schuemann’s RBI double, but the Angels’ fifth-inning rally, spearheaded by Neto’s double, proved decisive. Matt Thaiss added an RBI double to the Angels’ tally, as they went on to win their fourth game in five outings.
The Angels’ comeback was fueled by a sixth-inning surge that began with Luis Rengifo’s single. Two walks loaded the bases, and Austin Adams’ pitch hit Mickey Moniak, tying the game. Neto’s double then cleared the bases, securing the Angels’ victory.
Neto credited Washington’s sage advice to relax and take a comfortable swing, which paved the way for his clutch hit. The Angels’ sweep marks an outstanding turning point in their season, as they aim to build momentum and make a push for the playoffs.