Angels' fans criticise GM's questionable pitching change which cost them victory: "Thanks for ruining opening night" "Fire Nevin, sell the team"

The Los Angeles Angels had a disappointing start to their 2023 home season on Friday night, as they fell 4-3 to the Toronto Blue Jays.

But it wasn't just the loss that had fans upset. A questionable pitching change made by general manager Perry Minasian may have cost them the game.

With the score 3-1 in the Angels' favor in the top of the seventh inning and Matt Moore on the mound, Minasian made a pitching change. He brought in Jimmy Herget to face the Blue Jays' George Springer.

Springer singled to right field following which Bo Bichette came in at bat and hit a huge three-run homer to give the Blue Jays the lead. The game ultimately ended 4-3 with the Toronto Blue Jays beating the Los Angeles Angels in their first home game of the season.

Fans were quick to take to social media to voice their frustration with the decision. Many were questioning manager Phil Nevein's unchanged strategy, which has cost them several wins this season. Others were critical of Minasian, who has failed to strengthen the bullpen in the eyes of some fans.

The Los Angeles Angels hope to do better in the next two games againt the Blue Jays

The frustration from Angels fans is understandable, as this is not the first time they have seen questionable pitching decisions cost them games. They threw away their lead in the opening game of the MLB season against the Oakland Athletics in similar fashion.

But it's important to remember that baseball is a game of strategy, and sometimes even the best decisions can backfire. It's also worth noting that Minasian and Nevin have a lot of information that fans may not be privy to, such as pitch counts, scouting reports, and health concerns.

Ultimately, LA needs to regroup and focus on the rest of the season. It's still early, and there are plenty of games left to be played. But if the team wants to compete in a tough American League West division, they will need to make better decisions on the field and in the front office. They have two more games coming up against the Blue Jays, which they will hope to win.

About the author

Nishant Borooah is a journalist who has been reporting on baseball at Sportskeeda since 2023 and has a degree in Media Studies and Journalism.

Nishant is currently pursuing a diploma in Sports Marketing, and his interest in baseball was piqued early on by his father, who fell in love with baseball as a student in the US. His father used to regale him with stories about America's favorite pastime and they have left an impression on him.

Currently residing in Toronto, Nishant is a Blue Jays fan. revering Ichiro Suzuki growing up, Nishant remains in awe of the Japanese legend's longevity and sheer passion for the game. Suzuki's return to the Seattle Mariners in 2018 remains one of Nishant's favorite MLB moments.

One of Nishant's strengths is that he always covers the technical side of the story, and he is also particular about historical context to ensure articles are informative and easy to follow.

Besides being a writer, Nishant is also a soccer coach who has worked with several clubs in India like Shillong Lajong FC and RoundGlass Punjab FC.

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