Los Angeles Angels edge closer to franchise rock bottom

On September 23, 2026, the Los Angeles Angels suffered a 7-3 defeat against the Oakland Athletics at Sutter Health Park, marking their latest loss in a season where they have already clinched their 11th consecutive losing record. The team, now under ownership transition from Arte Moreno to Stan Kroenke, continues to grapple with late-game struggles, as they have lost 11 games when leading in the ninth inning, tying the record previously held by the 1978 New York Mets and 2012 Milwaukee Brewers.

Rookie Henry Bolte achieved a historic first four-hit game, contributing significantly to the Athletics' victory. Bolte went 4 for 5 with two runs scored and an RBI double in the second inning, extending the lead to 5-0. Mike Trout and Vaughn Grissom managed to pull the Angels within 5-2 with consecutive home runs in the fourth inning. However, Oakland's Jeffrey Springs struck out Ureña in the fourth, allowing him to pitch five runs on seven hits over four innings.

The Angels, sporting a minus-89 run differential and a Pythagorean winning percentage of 69-88, are facing challenges in protecting late leads and improving offensive output. Their offensive struggles have led the team to trade outfielder Jo Adell to the Cleveland Guardians, while they evaluate rookie Wade Meckler in the outfield. The club's pursuit of depth in the outfield and a left-handed power hitter for next season remains an ongoing priority.

Amidst this season's difficulties, the Angels have secured their 11th consecutive losing season, holding Major League Baseball's longest active postseason drought since their last playoff appearance in 2014. The franchise recorded its worst mark in 2024, with 99 losses. As the team travels to Seattle on Thursday to kick off a four-game series against the Seattle Mariners, manager Kurt Suzuki remains focused on getting better every single day, urging the team to finish the season strong.