Angels enjoy playing role of spoiler

HOUSTON — The Angels appeared destined for a loss, trailing the Astros by two runs entering the top of the ninth inning on Friday night at Minute Maid Park.

Then No. 9 hitter Cliff Pennington, who had gone 0-for-3 with two strikeouts, stepped into the box against Houston closer Ken Giles. Pennington lined a single to right, beginning the rally that propelled the Angels to a 10-6 victory.

“The first out is important for a closer,” Angels manager Mike Scioscia said. “We pressured them with that first big hit.”

Yunel Escobar followed with an even bigger hit, a two-run homer to left field that tied the score.

If the ball had been hit a little farther toward center field, it would have been in play — and maybe not even a hit.

“We knew it would be close to going out,” Scioscia said. “It can be an out.”

After Kole Calhoun flied out, Mike Trout walked, then …

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