Los Angeles Angels Fan Blog

Napoli is likely going to start Game 2 for Angels

Scioscia opts for more offense as the series goes on.

Angels manager Mike Scioscia preaches defense-first when it comes to choosing a catcher. But it will be Mike Napoli’s more potent bat in the lineup for at least the next two games against the Red Sox.

Jeff Mathis started Game 1 with John Lackey on the mound. Lackey’s starts might be the only post-season work Mathis gets.

Scioscia said Napoli will catch Jered Weaver in tonight’s Game 2. Scott Kazmir is scheduled to start Game 3 Sunday in Fenway Park. Napoli has been behind the plate for five of Kazmir’s six starts since he was acquired from Tampa Bay.

“Mike has worked well with Jered recently,” Scioscia said of Napoli who caught six of Weaver’s final eight starts of the regular season. “And Nap has a good rapport going with Kaz.”

Scioscia said his decisions on which catcher to use in the playoffs are “made with the same criteria” as they are during the regular season and he is no more swayed by Napoli’s offensive potential now than he was then.


Click here to read the full article – By BILL PLUNKETT of Ocregister.com

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October 9, 2009 - Posted by rsanrel | Angels Apparel, Angels News, Angels Stuff, Los Angeles Angels, MLB, Mike Napoli, Mike Scioscia | Los Angeles Angels Mens Apparel | No Comments Yet