Los Angeles Angels vs Baltimore Orioles Picks and Predictions May 10th 2025

Matthew Lugo’s Big Break: Why the Angels’ Rising Star Deserves a Longer Look Against the Orioles

The Los Angeles Angels are placing their trust in potential once again—and this time, it’s 24-year-old Matthew Lugo who’s stepping into the spotlight. After being called up from Triple-A Salt Lake on his birthday, Lugo is now expected to make his first major league start this weekend as the Angels host the Baltimore Orioles in Anaheim, California.

A Birthday Debut to Remember

Matthew Lugo’s major league journey officially began on Friday night in the Angels’ 4-1 loss to the Orioles. Though brief, his debut had symbolic weight—Lugo entered the game as a pinch runner in the eighth inning and took over center field in the ninth, signaling the team’s faith in his readiness.

From Trade Acquisition to Potential Breakout

Lugo wasn’t drafted by the Angels. In fact, he came over in a 2023 trade deadline deal with the Boston Red Sox, which sent reliever Luis Garcia to Boston. The Angels’ front office saw potential in Lugo’s athleticism and defensive versatility, and now they’re prepared to give him a longer runway in the big leagues. Check the Latest Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

Spring Training Promise

The outfielder impressed during spring training, coming close to securing a spot on the major league roster. Instead, he began the season with Salt Lake, where he initially struggled at the plate.

Turning the Corner in Triple-A

Lugo’s turnaround in recent weeks is hard to ignore. Despite a sluggish start—batting just .212 with 4 homers, 9 doubles, 18 RBIs, and a .656 OPS in 35 games—Lugo attributes his improvement to a key mechanical adjustment.

“At first, I was overthinking my swing decisions,” Lugo said. “Now I’m just focused on being on time for the fastball. My swing’s taking care of the rest.”

A Strategic Youth Movement

The Angels’ decision to elevate Lugo fits within their current youth-driven strategy. The team has already seen success with Zach Neto at shortstop and Logan O’Hoppe behind the plate. Lugo represents the next wave of homegrown talent getting a shot at everyday play.

Best MLB

Handicapping Membership

Get Free Trial

Pitching Preview: Saturday Showdown

As Lugo prepares to make his first start, the Angels will turn to Jack Kochanowicz on the mound. The 23-year-old right-hander is 1-5 with a 5.79 ERA this season and has never faced the Orioles before. He’s searching for consistency after a rocky outing against the Detroit Tigers, where he allowed five runs in five innings.

Veteran Matchup: Kyle Gibson Returns

For the Orioles, 37-year-old veteran Kyle Gibson (0-1, 14.09 ERA) will take the hill. Recently recalled to the big leagues, Gibson brings 13 seasons of experience and a sterling reputation in the clubhouse. He’s especially familiar to Orioles fans, having posted 15 wins with the team during the 2023 season.

Gibson is also no stranger to facing the Angels. He owns a 5.83 ERA in 15 career starts against Los Angeles but remains a valued mentor.

“I’m just grateful to be back with this group,” Gibson said. “It meant a lot playing here before. I hope I can still fit in, even if I’m two years older now.”

Why Lugo’s Opportunity Matters

The Angels’ decision to promote Lugo isn’t just about filling a roster spot—it’s a signal of faith in his development and potential. For a franchise striving to balance long-term growth with short-term competitiveness, Lugo’s performance could shape the team’s future plans.

If he can continue seeing the ball well, making solid contact, and maintaining defensive consistency, Lugo might join the ranks of Neto and O’Hoppe as core members of the Angels’ rebuild.