The Astros had barely recovered from Mike Trout’s historic two-run blast when the reigning American League Most Valuable Player strolled back to the plate in the eighth inning Friday night at Minute Maid Park.
Much to the Astros’ chagrin, the inning was unfolding perfectly for the Angels. Nobody out and two on for the best young slugger in baseball. The count was seemingly in Chad Qualls’ favor at 0-2, prompting the veteran reliever to remind himself not to hit Trout with a pitch down and inside.
Unfortunately for Qualls, Trout pounced on the sinker to give the Angels a 6-3 victory.