Skip to main content

LEADING OFF: Hamilton vs Angels; Kershaw tries to break skid

A look at what's happening all around the major leagues today:

---

NO JOSHING AROUND

Josh Hamilton faces the Angels for the first time since the abrupt April 27 trade that sent the 2010 AL MVP and five-time All-Star back to Texas after two underwhelming and injury-plagued seasons in Los Angeles. The West rivals open a three-game series in Texas. Hamilton made his season debut with the Rangers on May 25, but has played only nine games. He missed a month on the disabled list because of a strained left hamstring before returning to the Texas lineup Tuesday.

STREAK ENDER?

Los Angeles lefty Clayton Kershaw is looking to end his career-worst three-start losing streak, and he couldn't be facing a more perfect opponent. The Mets have totaled a mere 23 runs in their past 14 games. Overall, they've scored one run or fewer in 21 of 80 games this season. They scored just one run in a three-game sweep at the hands of the Cubs before heading west.

BACK AT IT

Giants RHP Jake Peavy, out since April 17 with a strained back, is scheduled to start at Washington.

BULL'S-EYE

Tampa Bay's Chris Archer allowed a career-high three homers in his last outing, against Boston. He'll face a friendlier foe this time. The right-hander is 5-0 with a 2.02 ERA in seven starts against the Yankees.

CENTER OF ATTENTION

Yankees center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury is expected to play his third rehab game after getting the day off Thursday. Out since May 20, Ellsbury began playing every other day for Class A Tampa on Monday.