Series #2
Preliminary Round
2013 Los Angeles Angels
Record: 78-84
Finish: 3rd in AL West
Manager: Mike Scioscia
Ball Park: Angel Stadium
WAR Leader: Mike Trout (8.9)
Hall of Famers: (0)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/LAA/2013.shtml
1989 Cincinnati Reds
Record: 75-87
Finish: 5th in NL West
Manager: Pete Rose
Ball Park: Riverfront Stadium
WAR Leader: Barry Larkin (3.9)
Hall of Famers: (1)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/LAA/2013.shtml
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In a battle that spanned generations, the 2013 Los Angeles Angels squared off against the 1989 Cincinnati Reds in a best-of-seven series that had baseball fans on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, it was the Angels who emerged victorious in a dramatic Game 7, securing their place in history. The winning run came in the most dramatic fashion possible—a bases-loaded walk.
Games 1 and 2: Reds Take Early Lead
The series kicked off at Angels Stadium, where the 1989 Reds showcased their offensive prowess. In Game 1, they managed to defeat the Angels 6-4, with Jose Rijo earning the win and K. Daniels contributing a home run. Game 2 saw the Reds maintain their momentum with a 2-1 victory. Garrett Richards was stellar for the Angels but was outdueled by a determined Reds team.
Games 3 and 4: Angels Rally Back
As the series shifted to Riverfront Stadium, the 2013 Angels mounted a comeback. In Game 3, they secured a 4-2 win with Jared Weaver delivering a strong pitching performance. However, Game 4 took an unexpected turn as it stretched to 14 innings, with the Reds finally pulling out an 8-6 victory. Chris Sabo's walk-off two-run homer became the stuff of legends.
Games 5 and 6: Series Deadlocked
Back at Riverfront Stadium for Game 5, the Angels' Matt Shoemaker stepped up, pitching a gem with six and a third innings of scoreless ball in a 2-0 victory. Game 6 shifted the series to Angels Stadium, where a fierce pitching duel between N. Charlton and J. Vargas ended with the Angels prevailing 1-0, setting the stage for a dramatic Game 7.
Game 7: Angels Secure the Series
With the series tied at three games apiece, Game 7 was an unforgettable showdown at Angels Stadium. The tension in the air was palpable, and both teams battled fiercely. Mike Trout, who had already made his presence felt in the series with three home runs, once again showed his prowess with a crucial homer. But the defining moment came in the 10th inning when the Angels loaded the bases and secured a thrilling victory with a bases-loaded walk, bringing home the winning run.
MVP and Standout Performances
Kole Calhoun emerged as the series MVP, hitting .286 with six RBI. His clutch two-run homer in Game 2 and timely contributions throughout the series proved pivotal. Jose Rijo's remarkable performance, including striking out 21 batters in the series, couldn't secure a victory for the Reds in the end.
This epic clash between the 1989 Cincinnati Reds and the 2013 Los Angeles Angels will be remembered as one of the most thrilling postseason series in baseball history. From extra-inning heroics to a nail-biting Game 7 finish, it had it all, and it will be celebrated by baseball enthusiasts for generations to come. To add a poignant note to the series, it was none other than legendary manager Pete Rose who suffered defeat, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the game of baseball.
2013 Los Angeles Angels Win Series 4 Games To 3
Series MVP:
(.289, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 4 R, 1 3B)