Los Angeles Angels: Is June the Month Where the Angels Turn the Corner?

The Los Angeles Angels used an outstanding month of May and went 18-11 to climb out from under the hole they were in after a dismal start to the season.

But June will be a critical month to continue to gain ground on the 4.5 game deficit behind the American League West-leading Texas Rangers. The eight-game winning streak in May was an ideal way to build necessary confidence going into the dog days of summer, but the culture of winning must continue in order for this team to have any chance at success.

In other words, the Angels can’t afford another downturn like the one they experienced to begin the year.

If May was an example of one thing, it was that the Halos have all of the talent to compete with the best in baseball, as evidenced by convincing series wins against the Rangers and New York Yankees. Though nearly every component of the team has struggled at some point, there is no true glaring weakness on the roster.

Injuries have already taken their toll on the Angels, with pitching ace Jered Weaver and outfielder Vernon Wells both on the DL. With that in mind, the summer will test the depth of the Angels with respect to pitching and offense. Fortunately, manager Mike Scioscia has gotten more than he’s asked for from some key players.

Rookie sensation Mike Trout (.324 BA in May) has been the nicest surprise of the year, and has become the emotional catalyst for the team through his all-out style of play on the bases and terrific defense in the outfield. Behind him, he’s got Mark Trumbo, a legitimate potential All-Star in 2012 and a resurgent Albert Pujols, who has come on strong of late and is batting .311 with seven home runs in his last 20 games.

These players will have a critical role in the Angels’ ability to catch Texas in the standings. It’s a long season, and the team will need consistency in every facet of the game. Fortunately, winning baseball has a way of being contagious, and the strong all-around play bodes well for the Angels moving forward in June.

It’s time for the Halos to set their sights on the division lead.

For more insight on the Los Angeles Angels, follow Michael on Twitter @MikeJonesTweets.