Soriano's Historic Start: A Dominant Performance with a Twist
The Angels' José Soriano is having a historic start to the 2026 season, and it's not just his pitching that's impressive. In a recent game against the Reds, Soriano showcased his ability to lead his team to victory, even when the odds seemed stacked against him.
The Dominant Performance
Soriano's pitching was nothing short of dominant. Allowing just two hits over seven scoreless innings, he struck out 10 and walked three, lowering his ERA to an astonishing 0.33. This performance was a testament to his skill and control, as he pounded the zone and attacked the strike zone early. The right-hander's 106 pitches (69 strikes) demonstrated his precision and ability to keep the opposition guessing.
A Message to the Manager
One of the most intriguing aspects of Soriano's performance was his interaction with manager Kurt Suzuki. Before the seventh inning, Soriano had a message for his manager, letting him know he wanted to finish the inning. This display of confidence and determination is what makes Soriano such a valuable asset to the team. Suzuki's faith in his ace was rewarded, as Soriano ended the inning with a groundout, showcasing his ability to stay calm under pressure.
A Historic Achievement
Soriano's performance is even more remarkable when you consider the historical context. He became the first Angels pitcher to win his first four starts since Jered Weaver in 2011. Weaver won his first six starts in 2011, and Soriano certainly looked like he could match, or even surpass, that achievement. With his 25+ innings pitched in his first four appearances, allowing fewer than 10 hits and fewer than two runs, Soriano is making a strong case for being one of the best pitchers in the league.
The Angels' Offensive Power
While Soriano's pitching was the highlight of the game, the Angels' offense also stepped up to the plate. Mike Trout, Jo Adell, Logan O'Hoppe, and Nolan Schanuel each had two hits, with Trout doubling, scoring twice, and reaching on a walk. The Angels knocked out Reds starter Andrew Abbott early, getting to the lefty for seven runs on eight hits and two walks over his three innings of work. The Halos' offensive prowess provided Soriano with more than enough cushion to secure the win.
A Twist in the Tale
However, the game wasn't without its twists and turns. Trout narrowly avoided serious injury when he took a foul ball line drive off his right elbow. O'Hoppe also took a blow to the groin, but remained in the game after spending several minutes on the ground recovering. These moments added an element of drama and showcased the resilience and determination of the Angels' players.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
Soriano's historic start and dominant performance against the Reds are a testament to his skill and determination. With his ability to lead the team to victory, even in challenging situations, Soriano is a player to watch. As the season progresses, he is sure to continue making waves and leaving his mark on the league. The Angels have a bright future ahead, and Soriano is undoubtedly a key part of their success.
