The 5-2 loss in the series finale Wednesday notwithstanding, the Angels delivered a stern message this week at Minute Maid Park.
The Angels have the best player in the game in Mike Trout, who already has 10 home runs. They continue to receive a surprising level of offensive production at shortstop, as Andrelton Simmons is batting .318 with thee home runs. In Justin Upton and Ian Kinsler, they have found answers to their longstanding problems in left field and second base, respectively. Shohei Ohtani has injected a previously absent sense of excitement around the team.
They might not finish ahead of the Astros in the American League West, but they are certain to push them.