Los Angeles Angels vs Detroit Tigers Picks and Predictions May 3rd 2025

Angels in Crisis: Ron Washington Urges Team to ‘Step Up’ Amid Trout Injury and Tigers Defeat

The Los Angeles Angels are teetering on the edge of a full-blown slump, and manager Ron Washington isn’t holding back. Following a demoralizing 9-1 loss to the Detroit Tigers and the injury of superstar Mike Trout, Washington has issued a clear challenge: it’s time for the entire roster to step up.

Angels Reeling Without Trout

The Angels were already struggling to generate offense before Friday’s announcement that Mike Trout had been placed on the 10-day injured list with a bone bruise in his left knee—the same knee that required surgery last season. Despite hitting just .179 this year, Trout leads the team in home runs (9) and RBIs (18).

“I feel a lot better now. The MRI looks good, just bruising. I’m optimistic I’ll be back soon,” Trout told reporters, expressing confidence that he could return when eligible.

But in the short term, the Angels must navigate their scoring woes without him.

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Staggering Stats: Offense and Pitching Both Falter

Over the past 19 games, Los Angeles has scored more than four runs just once. During the same stretch, their pitching staff—boasting a bloated 5.22 ERA—has held opponents below four runs only five times.

The team has now lost seven straight games and nine of their last 10, falling to last place in the AL West and trailing the division-leading Seattle Mariners by seven games.

Washington’s Message: Step Up or Step Aside

“We were struggling even with Mike,” Washington admitted. “But his presence alone matters. What we need now is for the entire team to step up. This slump has hit everyone.”

His remarks suggest a growing urgency inside the clubhouse, especially with Jorge Soler, Jo Adell, and recently promoted Gustavo Campero and Niko Kavadas stepping in to cover outfield responsibilities.

Pitching Matchup: Hendricks vs. Flaherty

Looking ahead, Kyle Hendricks (0-3, 6.65 ERA) will take the mound for the Angels on Saturday night, still searching for his first win with the club. He has a solid 2.70 ERA in three career starts against Detroit.

On the other side, Jack Flaherty (1-3, 3.34 ERA) will pitch for the Tigers. Despite a rough 16.88 ERA in two prior starts against the Angels, Flaherty has been more consistent this season. Don’t miss out on our Daily Baseball Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

Tigers Thriving in AL Central

While the Angels stumble, the Detroit Tigers continue to excel, leading the AL Central with 164 runs scored and only 110 runs allowed. A defensive gem came Thursday night, when Javier Baez, a former Gold Glove shortstop turned center fielder, leapt to rob Soler of a home run.

“Great timing, feel for the wall—it’s natural with him,” praised Tigers manager A.J. Hinch.

What’s Next for the Angels?

With Trout sidelined, the pressure mounts for Los Angeles to snap its skid and rediscover the spark that saw them start the season at 8-4. Washington’s public challenge signals potential shifts in the lineup, mindset, or even the broader organizational direction.

In the coming days, all eyes will be on how this team responds—not just in stats, but in heart.