Angels Upset Phillies 8–2: Ward Powers LA’s Big Night

By Oliver Wiener July 22, 2025 11:54

The Los Angeles Angels stunned the Philadelphia Phillies on July 20, 2025, with a dominant 8–2 victory at Citizens Bank Park, powered by a commanding start from José Soriano and a game-changing offensive explosion highlighted by Taylor Ward. The win capped a series victory for the Angels and showcased a balanced attack that overwhelmed the Phillies’ lineup.

Soriano was the fulcrum of the Angels’ success on the mound, delivering seven innings of strong, controlled pitching. The right-hander limited the Phillies to just two runs on six hits, striking out five and issuing no walks. His ability to keep Philadelphia’s dangerous hitters off balance was evident as he effectively mixed his pitch selection and maintained sharp command. After the game, Soriano reflected on his performance: “I focused on attacking the zone early and trusting my stuff. The team gave me all the runs I needed, so I just went out and executed pitch by pitch.”

The Angels’ offense exploded early, plating five runs in the second inning against Phillies starter Ranger Suárez, who struggled to contain their aggressive approach. With the bases loaded and a run already in, Mike Trout drew a crucial walk on a full count, forcing in a second run, which visibly frustrated Suárez and shifted momentum. Taylor Ward then dashed hopes for a Phillies comeback by clearing the bases with a monstrous three-run double, igniting the Angels dugout and giving Los Angeles a commanding lead. Ward finished the game with two doubles and four RBIs, cementing his role as the architect of the Angels’ big night.

Ward’s performance drew high praise from manager Matt Verdugo: “Taylor was exceptional today. His switch-hitting ability gives us flexibility and that kind of power at such a key moment is invaluable.”

Philadelphia’s offense was limited, though they managed to score a run in the second on an RBI single by catcher Rafael Marchan. Later, Otto Kemp, who had been inserted at third base due to an injury to Alec Bohm, hit a two-out solo homer in the sixth inning but was hampered by defensive miscues, committing two errors during the game. The Phillies finished with six hits and two runs but were unable to mount sustained rallies.

The Phillies’ struggles on defense and lack of timely hitting juxtaposed sharply with the Angels’ balanced attack. After the second inning, the Phillies failed to threaten the Angels’ bullpen, which held firm to protect the lead. Closer Félix Bautista completed the game, earning a save and shutting down the Phillies’ ninth-inning efforts.

With this series win, the Angels bolster their confidence as they prepare for a pivotal three-game set against the New York Mets. Tuesday marks Tyler Anderson’s next start for Los Angeles against Mets ace Kodai Senga, a matchup that could further define the Angels’ midseason trajectory.

For the Phillies, attention turns to their upcoming home series against the Boston Red Sox, where Zack Wheeler will square off against Walker Buehler. Philadelphia will look to tighten up defensively and generate more consistent offensive production after a tough series loss.

The Angels’ 8–2 rout highlighted the perfect blend of pitching dominance from José Soriano and clutch hitting spearheaded by Taylor Ward. Their aggressive approach and opportunistic execution overwhelmed a Philadelphia team playing without key contributors effectively. Los Angeles’ ability to win in Philadelphia signals their growing competitiveness with a lineup and pitching staff clicking at the right moment in the 2025 season.