Cruz, Leake lead Mariners to 8-2 victory over Angels

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Nelson Cruz hit a three-run homer, Mike Leake pitched seven strong innings and the Seattle Mariners started an 11-game road trip with an 8-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday night.

Cruz's three-run shot to center field in the fourth inning was his eighth homer this season against the Angels, the most a player has had in one year against the franchise, according to Baseball-Reference.

Leake (10-9) threw a season-high 114 pitches (80 strikes), allowing one run and four hits with a walk and five strikeouts. His only costly mistake came in the seventh when Justin Upton homered to left.

After going 0-5 in July and August, Leake has won two straight starts for the…