ANAHEIM -- A year ago, the Angels entered the All-Star break with a 37-52 mark, felled in large part by a starting rotation that was decimated by injuries. A similar script unfolded this season, but with an added kick, as the Halos saw three starters and their superstar, Mike Trout, land on the disabled list for extended periods of time.
But unlike last year, the Angels managed to stay afloat amid waves of adversity, going 45-47 in the first half. The Halos trail the first-place Astros by 16 1/2 games in the American League West, but they're only three games behind the Rays for the second AL Wild Card spot.