Lackey named Pitcher of the Month New York, NY (Sports Network) - Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim right-hander
John Lackey was named the American League's Pitcher of the Month for June,
posting a 5-0 record with a 1.16 ERA.
The 29-year-old Lackey allowed just five earned runs on 23 hits with 34
strikeouts in 38 2/3 innings, winning all five of his starts. He lasted at
least seven innings in each of his starts in June.
For the season, Lackey is 6-1 with a 1.44 ERA and 54 strikeouts in 68 2/3
innings over nine starts. This is the second monthly award he has received in
his career, having won ... More...
Joe Saunders is expected to make his start tonight at Texas, according to the OC Register. His pregnant wife is due for delivery, but Saunders said everything is still on hold. The baby can be born any day now, and Saunders said, "If it comes, I'm out of here."
Our View:Saunders, who is 12-4, should be in your lineups tonight, but keep in mind the risk that he could be called away at any time.
Mike Napoli underwent an MRI on Monday which confirmed he is suffering from shoulder irritation, according to the OC Register. Skipper Mike Sciosca said, "It’s more of a relief than anything. There’s a lot of things that can happen with a shoulder and that’s an area you need to do a lot of things. We’re relieved. Once the inflammation comes out of there and he gets some strength back in that shoulder, he should be able to get back with us and we’re going to need him."
Our View:Napoli is expected to rejoin the Angels in Texas on Tuesday and begin a rehabilitation program. Jeff Mathis is also expected to get nearly all of the work at catcher until Napoli returns.
