Mark Saxon

  (2:09 PM)

The Angels are riding a two-game winning streak, which -- by their recent standards -- is hot. Lots to talk about this week, including whether Albert Pujols is heating up, Torii Hunter's status, etc. So, let's get to it.

Tony (Santa Cruz)

what happened to kendrick? he was ripping the ball in preseason, is he getting pitched differently? ...seems like he can't hit offspeed at all

Mark Saxon

  (2:10 PM)

Tony, The knock on Howie since he came up was that he couldn't get sliders. People thought batting him in front of Pujols would get him more fastballs, but perhaps Pujols' struggles also affected Howie? The other thing that stands out is the strikeouts. He has 40 already and we're barely past the quarter pole. Like a lot of guys, he's off to a slow start.

Michael (Laguna Beach)

Is Dipoto trying to trade Bourjos? Odds the Angels trade Bourjos this year?

Mark Saxon

  (2:12 PM)

I doubt he feels compelled to trade Bourjos, Michael, but I also think he would listen if another team made a credible offer. With Mark Trumbo and Mike Trout, the Angels really don't have a great need for a young outfielder, even though Peter is an exceptional fielder. I think the odds are 50-50 he gets moved by July 31.

Jim (Palm Springs)

How concerned are the Angels about Pujols?

Mark Saxon

  (2:13 PM)

Um, I'd say very, Jim. They've hitched themselves to this guy for the next 10 years. How could they not be? But I also do get the sense that, in the short and medium terms, they feel like he'll be a productive player for them. It's hard to imagine a guy having this kind of drop-off just seven months after doing what he was doing in the World Series. The recent home runs (three in eight days) are also encouraging.

Jeremiah (Las Vegas)

Erick Aybar has looked terrible this season, and has always been inconsistent. What was the rush to sign him long term?

Mark Saxon

  (2:15 PM)

Jeremiah, I think the fact that really good shortstops are in short supply right now probably drove that, plus they got a fairly team-friendly contract. Aybar has been playing poorly, though, I agree with you on that. If he can play solid defense and get a little more comfortable at the plate, though, I don't think that will end up looking like a bad contract. Have you seen free agent salaries lately?

Jason (Costa Mesa)

Who is the most likely player on the Angels to get traded?

Mark Saxon

  (2:17 PM)

I don't know that, but here are some potential areas of depth: Outfield once Torii and Wells return (Bourjos); Infielders (Maicer Izturis or Alberto Callaspo). Maybe catcher when Chris Iannetta returns (Hank Conger?) That's about it.

Matt (Tarzana, CA)

Is it possible that if the offensive inconsistency continues that the Angels may try and make a trade mid-season to get some more rbi production behind Pujols and Trumbo? I'd say move trout down in the lineup but who else do we have that can get on base at a high rate like he does?

Mark Saxon

  (2:18 PM)

Matt, I think now that they've finally found a good leadoff hitter, the last thing they're thinking of doing is tampering with that. And I truly believe that the offensive production will increase naturally if Pujols can just get into a semblance of a comfort zone. Mark Trumbo and Kendrys Morales are protection enough, or at least they should be. Torii Hunter still has something left in the tank and Wells is fine as a No. 7 hitter.

Bobby (Santa Ana)

Is Dipoto happy with the way Scioscia is doing his job? I get the sense that they don't like each other. Which begs the question, are the Angels committed to Scioscia? Or is he on thin ice?

Mark Saxon

  (2:21 PM)

Bobby, I could have told you back in December that this relationship had the potential to be highly explosive. If this team keeps fumbling its way along, does it come to a head this year? Not sure, but I do know these guys evaluate players differently and that Scioscia was not happy about losing influence or about losing his good friend, Mickey Hatcher. This could become the storyline of the season if the Angels can't turn it around. Remember all that noise between Ozzie Guillen and Kenny Williams? Could it be coming this way?

Mitchell (Los Angeles, CA)

How much playing time can we expect from Calhoun once the outfield returns from the dead. It's nice to have that lefty bat in the lineup.

Mark Saxon

  (2:22 PM)

That's true, Mitchell, he does bring that left-handed presence, plus he's got that scrappy, overachiever vibe about him that might energize this team. But to answer your question, I think he'll be in the minors as soon as Torii returns.

Jeff (Huntington Beach)

With Pujols continuing to struggle, when do you think Mike Scioscia drops him down to the 5 or 6 hole and inserts Trumbo in the 3 hole?

Mark Saxon

  (2:24 PM)

Not sure, maybe 2014? Actually, Jeff, he's been resisting that all season and the fact that Pujols is looking moderately better lately will stall those decisions even further. And, if he does make a move it will be from No. 3 to No. 4. Whoop-de-doo. the other issue is that the Angels just don't have an obvious replacement in the three-hole.

Matt (Tarzana, CA)

How long till Ernesto Frieri earns the closer role? Downs is great but no one has looked as dominant as Frieri this year and downs would fit perfectly back in that setup role.

Mark Saxon

  (2:25 PM)

Actually, Matt, the answer to your question is yesterday. Literally. Ernesto closed yesterday's game, struck out the side and earned his first career save. You, almost literally, cannot pitch any better than this guy has in his first nine games or so. Score one for Jerry Dipoto so far.

Matt (Tarzana, CA)

Do you think it might help pujols out a bit if we switch him to the 4 or 5 spot until he starts to heat up? I know he is feeling some pressure and maybe this would help relieve some.

Mark Saxon

  (2:26 PM)

I guess if you're asking my opinion, I'd say no. I think he'd be feeling that pressure even if he hit ninth ($240 million contracts can do that to you), plus he'd be angry that the team lost confidence in him so quickly.

Everyones favorite DAD (San Jose, CA)

Will Pujols get near his career avg? in anything

Mark Saxon

  (2:27 PM)

I looked at that yesterday and, if he does what he did last year from this point forward, he would bat .280 with 34 home runs. That's way off his norms, but it sounds pretty good about now, doesn't it?

Paul (Phillips Ranch)

what is the ETA on Conger's return ?

Mark Saxon

  (2:29 PM)

Paul, He's still on the DL for that shoulder injury, but the latest reports suggest he could be activated any day. Remember, he has a history of shoulder injuries, including major surgery, so I wouldn't expect this thing just to go away.

everyones favorite dad (san jose )

Who will be traded first; Trumbo or Borojius?

Mark Saxon

  (2:30 PM)

That's an easy one: Bourjos. If the Angels traded Trumbo right now, they'd give the Pittsburgh Pirates a run for worst offense in baseball. Bourjos isn't playing, which always suggest his future is far less certain.

Douglas (Glendale)

How much influence do you think clubhouse/team chemistry and management style has on a ballclub? You seem teams like the dodgers playing (what seems to be) way over their talent level while teams with tons of talent like the Angels withering on the vine. I'm loving the energy that our young players like Trout, Trumbo, and even Calhoun in his short stint so far are bringing to the table. It doesn't seem like we've had that spark when the veterans were in the lineup everyday.

Mark Saxon

  (2:32 PM)

Good comment, Douglas, but a tough one to answer. I do know that there is more tension in this clubhouse than there has been in recent years. Is that because players sense Pujols' stress, or the fact that Scioscia has been more uptight? Winning can change vibes quickly, but so far it hasn't been a great place to hang out. I don't think that's why they're not winning, though, but it might play a part.

Matt (Burbank)

3B seems to be a random platoon between Callaspo and Izturis, who both have their merits. Can we expect one of these guys to become more of the everyday third baseman, or will it continue to flip-flop? (Assuming neither is traded)

Mark Saxon

  (2:34 PM)

I think the random platoon will continue. I'm not even sure Mike Scioscia knows the difference between them any more. Just kidding on that part, but as you said, they both bring things to the table, many of those skills overlapping.

Sean (Anaheim)

Who is the next player on the Angels to sign an extension?

Mark Saxon

  (2:44 PM)

I thought maybe it was Dan Haren, but he has been struggling somewhat (though, it's mostly a run-support issue) and the Angels have a hefty option on him for 2013. I guess I'd now say Chris Iannetta.

Matt (Tarzana)

Has Trumbo earned his right to be out of trade rumors now? I mean they guy grew up in So Cal, was raised an Angels fan, was brought up through our system, proved he can play all around the field and his arguably our best offensive player right now. I was upset to hear people talking about trading him months ago but I haven't heard much lately.

Mark Saxon

  (2:45 PM)

I think you pretty much nailed it, Matt. He also has looked so much more in command in the batter's box, swinging at fewer pitchers' pitches, etc. Yeah, I'd say the guy is proving that his upside is much higher than anyone thought and they'd be foolish to think about trading him now.

Phil (Tustin)

Are there any positions the Angels can, realistically, upgrade at come the trade deadline? It seems we are stuck just about everywhere (but the pen) and/or there is nobody likely to be available who would be much of an upgrade.

Mark Saxon

  (2:46 PM)

I guess third base comes to mind, but not much else. They still could use another bullpen arm and maybe a little more starting pitching depth, but nothing too exciting jumps out. I would expect them to trade for a pitcher if anything.

Phi (Poundtown)

Don't you think trading Bourjos is a shortsighted, poor move considering that the farm system is incredibly weak, Hunter's contract is set to expire, and Wells is not good at baseball anymore. Is trading young, productive, cheap talent in order to cater to the egos over over priced veterans a good idea for the future of this franchise?

Mark Saxon

  (2:52 PM)

For the most part, I agree with you, Phi. It's only worth exploring if you can get a major piece in return and I'm sure that's the only condition Dipoto would move Bourjos. On the other hand, I'm not convinced Bourjos will ever be a major contributor with the bat, whereas the same can't be said of Trout or Trumbo. Therefore, he's the most movable but there's hardly any rush to do it.

Matt (Burbank)

At times watching the Angels this year, thinking about the playoffs is hopeless. But Orioles and Blue Jays are seemingly in over their heads and the additional WC spot might be a godsend if the AL East doesn't send 3 teams to the postseason. Which AL East teams are least likely to make the playoffs?

Mark Saxon

  (2:56 PM)

Matt, I totally agree with you. I may be in the minority on this, but I still expect the Angels to be in the playoffs. Boston has some major issues to sort out and Toronto hasn't been through it before. The Yankees have injury concerns. And nobody in the Central aside from Detroit seems like it will have long-term staying power. It's still there for the taking.

Douglas (Glendale)

Do you think the Angels will finish over .500 this year? and if so any estimate on what you think their record will look like at seasons end? It seems ridiculous to think they wouldn't finish over .500 but at this point they haven't been able to string enough wins together to make a run at it.

Mark Saxon

  (2:58 PM)

I'd say 86-76 or so and eking in as the second wild card team, but not a comfortable matchup in the playoffs with Jered Weaver and Albert Pujols coming to town.

Blain (San Juan Capistrano)

When does this bad start turn into jsut a bad team? I guess I'm asking, how long do you think management will let this team ride the way it is before major changes are made? Until the all-star break? Or until the offseason?

Mark Saxon

  (3:00 PM)

They've already made a couple big moves (releasing Bobby Abreu/recalling Trout and firing the hitting coach), but more will follow, probably in a couple of weeks if things keep going like this.

Alex (San Diego)

Any chance we could swing a Callaspo + Wells (we eat half his salary) for Youkilis trade? Thoughts?

Mark Saxon

  (3:01 PM)

I imagine the Boston general manager likes his job, so I would say, "None."

everyones favorite dad (san jose )

Are the Rangers for real? and when will the Angels catch them?

Mark Saxon

  (3:03 PM)

You can't get much for real than going for a third straight World Series (other than actually winning one). I've thought for quite a while the Rangers were the best team in baseball, certainly the most well-rounded. I think Josh Hamilton's impending free agency is a nice spur to this season for them. I highly doubt the Angels can catch them.

Walter (Los Angeles)

What are the chances Mike Scioscia resigns??

Mark Saxon

  (3:05 PM)

I guess there's a chance he would go manage another team, but the Dodgers must be thrilled with Don Mattingly right now and Scioscia's home is here. I don't expect him to give up five years of his contract just to walk away.

Nick (Anaheim)

How large a chance is there of the Angels extending Trout this season to a 10-year Evan Longoria type deal? He has already shown glimpses of being an elite player at age 20.

Mark Saxon

  (3:06 PM)

I'd have to look into the details of when Longoria's deal was done, but I doubt it was in his rookie season (was it?). I believe the Mariners gave Jesus Montero a multi-year deal even though he's still far from arbitration. I guess if you're going to take a stab, Trout's as good a bet as anybody.

Nick (Syracuse)

If you could re-draft everyone in the league right now, where would Pujols fall? Top 5, Top 10,...

Mark Saxon

  (3:07 PM)

For this season? I imagine he'd still be in the Top 20.

Alex (CA)

Is it just me or does something feel....a little different about Mike Scioscia? He seems unhappy

Mark Saxon

  (3:09 PM)

Alex, I think you have good intuition. Mike feels more remote to me this season and the Mickey Hatcher move potentially creates bad blood with his front office. A player (Torii Hunter) has publicly criticized him. It just doesn't feel like his team right now.

Nick (Syracuse)

Where does Mike Trout rank among the top MLB prospects in The Show right now?

Mark Saxon

  (3:09 PM)

Top 3 for sure. Harper and Moore are right there. Montero, etc. on the periphery.

Javier (Lynwood)

You are around the team, correct. Is the vibe around the clubhouse as morose as it appears to be from the outside looking in? Everyone looks tight, and most importantly it looks like no one is enjoying playing the game right now, that almost always equals a losing season.

Mark Saxon

  (3:10 PM)

As I mentioned a little earlier, I do feel more tension in the clubhouse. If things finally get rolling, though, everyone will have more fun. I guarantee that.

Kent (Burbank)

What did you mean by they (Scioscia and Dipoto) evaluate players differently? Is Scioscia more into stats like save % and pitcher W-L records?

Mark Saxon

  (3:12 PM)

No, but I think for years Scioscia has stood out in the AL for less reliance on statistics and less interest in on-base percentage, more reliance on aggressive base running. Dipoto has a SABR card and has been trying to beef up on-base percentage since he arrived.

Jose (Los Angeles)

Why can't they move Pujols to third base and Trumbo first base in order to give us the best line up?Pujols played 3rd back in the day.

Mark Saxon

  (3:13 PM)

Probably because they figure the last thing Albert needs is to have to worry about playing a more demanding position right now. Tony LaRussa did it for a week last year. Maybe they'll try it. I actually kind of like the idea, in the short run anyway.

Matt (tarzana)

Do you think all the media hype on Bryce Harper is helping Trout focus on his game and excelling at such a high rate so quickly? I mean, if you compare their stats so far, there really is not much to compare. I feel down the line Trout is going to be the much better all around player. I guess my second question is, who do you think in 5 years will be the better player?

Mark Saxon

  (3:14 PM)

Matt, I think you're probably onto something. Mike has had a fairly quiet rookie season so far. If I'm honest, I might actually prefer Harper long term because he projects to have such ridiculous power (remember, he's still 19) and he hits lefty. You couldn't go wrong with either guy, though.

Rob (Moreno Valley)

Any truth to the report that Pujols regrets signing with the Angels?

Mark Saxon

  (3:15 PM)

I think I'm one of the last people he would ever admit that to, Rob, but I bet it's crossed his mind since his family is all back in St. Louis and he's had the worst two months of his career here.

Kim (Garden Grove)

Will Wells ever get released?

Mark Saxon

  (3:16 PM)

Yeah, I think that's where this thing is headed. I'm sure the Angels would like to put it off as long as possible and right now he is on the DL, which helps with that.

Bob (Sacramento)

Peter Bourjos for Anthony Rendon? Possible?

Mark Saxon

  (3:21 PM)

The Nationals rumors have been lingering for so long, I'm starting to suspect if they move Bourjos it will be to a team nobody saw coming.

everyones favorite dad (san jose )

Should the Angels go after another big hitter during the All-star break?

Mark Saxon

  (3:21 PM)

Personally, I don't think so. I think they'd be better off adding pitching and hoping some of the hitters come around (which seems like a reasonable gamble given track records).

Josh (Springdale)

Do Arte and Scioscia communicate as often as they did before this year?

Mark Saxon

  (3:22 PM)

Not sure about that one, Josh.

Mike (Mission Viejo, CA)

Can anyone really be surprised by Pujos struggles? Okay, no on would have expected he would be this bad so quickly but it was obvious that was a horrible contract from the very beginning. He is a 32 (realistically probably closer to 35) year old coming off of his worst season of his career. Were people really expecting himto him .340 with 45 homeruns? This is the same team that thought trading Napoli for the privilidge of paying $25 million a year to Wells was a good idea.

Mark Saxon

  (3:23 PM)

Maybe you saw it coming, Mike, but I didn't. The scouts I spoke to before the season thought he'd have a monster year. Yeah, most people thought the contract was too long, but virtually no one thought he'd be hitting .200 going into June.

Johnathan (Pasadena)

You mentioned moves could be forthcoming in the next few weeks if this team doesn't turn a corner. What do you see as the likely moves in that scenario?

Mark Saxon

  (3:25 PM)

Johnathan, some of the possibilities include a Peter Bourjos trade, the promotion of Garrett Richards, perhaps putting Albert on the DL if he doesn't get it going soon (I'm not saying I know he's hurt, but they could exaggerate a nagging injury to get him some down time to sort out his swing). Just thoughts off the top of my head.

Jon (San Jose)

Dipoto must have had Arte's blessing to fire Hatcher. Given how unhappy Scioscia looked and sounded, could there be a divide between the front office and the coaching staff? Are they even on the same page?

Mark Saxon

  (3:26 PM)

Oh yeah. I alluded to that earlier, Jon, but to summarize: I think this relationship has the potential to blow up in a big way, if it hasn't already.

everyones favorite dad (san jose )

If Verlander and Weaver had to pitch to each other, how long would it take and who would get the first hit?

Mark Saxon

  (3:27 PM)

Do you mean who would be the first to get hit by a pitch? If you mean with the bat, I'd say Verlander would have a much better shot at a hit and I have no idea if he can even hit. He throws way harder.

Anthony (Burbank,CA)

Mark- Can you please tell the basbeall gods to give back Kendry's Power?

Mark Saxon

  (3:27 PM)

Done.

Jake (CHINATOWN)

Do the Angels have insurance for injured players - for example, is the team getting compensated for Vernon's injury?

Mark Saxon

  (3:28 PM)

No, I don't think they can trigger that for a player with a routine injury like this. In fact, I think teams only have that kind of insurance for mega-deals like Pujols'.

Matt (tarzana)

Do you see Trout moving down into a more run producing role later on his career? I have read reports predicting him to be a 30+ home run guy in the future and with his average, he has the potential to drive in 100 easily. Maybe the angels will look for a legitimate lead off hitter in the next few off seasons? I know it is Super early, but thoughts?

Mark Saxon

  (3:29 PM)

I think the 1-3 spots in the order are the most natural places for him because of his speed and on-base skills. Rickey Henderson batted leadoff pretty much his whole career. So did Bobby Bonds. It's not against the law to have power batting first.

Heath (Dallas)

Mark, thanks for always answering Twitter questions -- much appreciated. If the Angels eat somewhere in the neighborhood of 80% of Wells' salary, is there a team out there that would want him for a low grade prospect? Better than releasing him and paying the entire boat, right?

Mark Saxon

  (3:30 PM)

I don't know this for a fact, Heath, but I suspect there's not a team in baseball (maybe even in Japan) that would be interested in a guy who has batted .223 over his past 700 at-bats and would still cost you multi-millions. Could be wrong.

Jon (San Jose)

Is Eppard going to keep his job as hitting coach or will he be replaced?

Mark Saxon

  (3:31 PM)

Dipoto told me he's got the rest of this season to impress them enough to keep his job. I'd say he has a good chance, because there's hardly anywhere for this offense to go but up.

Justin (Anaheim)

How many Angels will be in the All-Star game? I'm thinking possibly 5.. can you guess who i'm thinking?

Mark Saxon

  (3:32 PM)

The fans will probably pick Pujols, I guess. Other possibilities: Weaver, Trout, Trumbo and maybe Downs. Did I get them?

Dan (Huntington Beach)

Does this franchise pride itself on drafting terrible catchers who are unable to hit for average? Or does Scioscia have a knack for melting their minds?

Mark Saxon

  (3:34 PM)

Dan, Yes, this is a source of immeasurable pride for the Angels. Actually, you would have thought Hank Conger would have been the breakout offensive catcher, but injuries and lack of performance have been problems. I do think Scioscia is a difficult man to work for if you're a young player, especially a catcher. Don't be shocked to see Conger thrive elsewhere, a la Napoli.

Jake (CHINATOWN)

Did Neil Young sing about Kendrys when he said "It's better to burn out than to fade away"? Is the Cuban Missle on his literal last leg? his hobbling on the bases looks painful. Is there concern?

Mark Saxon

  (3:35 PM)

Jake, I'm not sure where Kendrys' power went, but I know he doesn't look like he's in tip-top shape to me.

everyones favorite dad (san jose )

Would you rather have the contract of Zito or Wells?

Mark Saxon

  (3:35 PM)

Probably Zito.

Justin (Anaheim)

I was thinking Weaver, Pujols, Wilson, Trumbo and Frieri. Downs has been stellar now that I think about it and definitely is deserving thus far. I would love to see Trout in there, but all the hype is going towards that mohawk kid who Trout is definitely out-performing.

Mark Saxon

  (3:36 PM)

I forgot about Wilson. But seriously, I think there would be an investigation if a sub.500 team got 5 All-Stars.

Anthony (Burbank)

Mark this is your longest chat yet. Regarding the Hatcher firing- I think it has much more to do the regression of Kendrick, Aybar, Bourjous and their approaches vs. Pujols. Thoughts.

Mark Saxon

  (3:37 PM)

Pujols helped create the numbers that got Mickey fired, but it wasn't as if they didn't like how the two were working together. It was an overall message/performance thing.

Aaron (Anaheim)

Is Trumbo really upset about Hatcher's firing and if he is, how upset? Also, why would he be upset when seemingly getting away from Hatcher's philosophy is what seems to have helped him improve this year?

Mark Saxon

  (3:37 PM)

I think Trumbo's OK with it. He worked with Eppard at Triple-A.

Johnathan (Pasadena)

How long do you think the Angels will carry Vernon Wells before finally accepting the inevitability that he must be released? I would think somewhere between the All-Star break and maybe the end of August.

Mark Saxon

  (3:38 PM)

My guess is early next season. This DL thing will take care of the next two months, then maybe they'll ease him into a bench role for the final few months?

Mark Saxon

  (3:39 PM)

OK, this was our best chat yet. We went more than 90 minutes and I apologize if we didn't get to all the questions and comments. Please come back in a week and we'll make sure to post them.