T.G.

I think Pujols is extremely prideful and that he's probably (thought I have no idea of knowing for sure) reluctant to ask or take help. I think (again, just my opinion) he is probably a little stunned at his own lack of production and is searching for answers himself. I also honestly believe that if he continues to be just mediocre, he will retire before the end of his contract. I think he feels the pressure and is in denial about his declining skills. He has shown signs of his former self and that's probably puzzling to him - and to the rest of us who want to see him succeed. I take issue with his batting third in the lineup. I'd much rather see Trout or Hamilton in that slot right now. The amazing thing is the team is doing relatively well despite Pujols' struggles... I can only imagine how well they'd be doing if he upped his game a couple ticks.

Is it just me or is this board much more active when the Angels lose a few games?

More of this, please.

Your back would hurt too if you had to carry an entire franchise on it every freakin' game.

Joe is THE MAN. This awesome. Some of the best interviews and many breaking stories have been delivered by Joe over the years. AngelsWin getting Joe McDonnell is like any baseball team signing the biggest and best free agent on the open market. Congratulations Chuck!

So... he's due. That's good news.

I still look forward to being at the park when Weaver takes the mound. I love watching him pitch. He's an artist and I am glad he's on this team, period.

I could get used to this.

Pujols 3 for 4, 2 HR

I'm glad this still gets talked about because we should never forget.

I think McDonald is a good fit for the role he has.

Pujols 2 for 4, Double

Bad news on the anniversary of Nick Adenhart's death no less... crap, crap, crap.

Trout 2 for 4, SB

Pujols 1 for 3, HR

Don't forget... Trout signed extension...

The Angels have to beat the teams within their own division... that's the bottom line. They absolutely have to do this.

I was pretty calm until I started reading this thread... now I'm amped up and ready for the first pitch.

Mike Trout Clatyon Kershaw Jose Fernandez Andrelton Simmons Chris Sale

Jered has shown his ability to adapt... Jeff didn't for the most part. Jered already has more K's in his career 1,236 in just 8 seasons compared to Jeff's 1,214 in his 13 year career. They are not that similar. Career WHIP for Jeff - 1.367. For Jered - 1.143. If they have similar genetics, similar deliveries, etc. - how come their results are so different? Jered'd K/9 innings have been exactly the same the last two seasons. Last year his WHIP and BB/9 were below his career average. Sure, he's going to regress some, everyone does - but he's not in the same discussion as Jeff.

Hamiltown - by citing Jeff declining velocity you're implying that Jered's career will have a similar fate and that's just wrong. You know better. You know that velocity is only one component of pitching and to focus on that; especially with a pitcher like Jered is just flawed.

audio says it all... http://espn.go.com/espnradio/play?id=10555543

IP - That's true... but when a national writer dismisses the Angels that easily, it makes me angry. These guy make bad predictions all the time - you'd think they'd learn a little humility. I find his comments arrogant and insulting. I usually don't give a rip about what writers say about the Angels - but this particular article was written like a 12 year old did it. The statements are predictable and not without a great deal of thought.

Given that a lot of people thought Trout wouldn't even consider an extension and bolt as soon as possible... six years is great news and let's just wait and see how many years actually materialize.

the comments that follow the article are just as special... unbelievable. I love the idea that most of these writers have written off the Angels now and in the near future. How often are their predictions even close to being right?