Trout Still Reigns: Angels’ Opening Day Victory Signals a Promising Season
HOUSTON – In a resounding statement to start the 2026 season, the Los Angeles Angels defeated the Houston Astros 3-0 on Thursday, fueled by a stellar performance from veteran Mike Trout and a dominant pitching outing from José Soriano. The win marked manager Kurt Suzuki’s debut victory and a rare Opening Day road win for the Angels.
Trout’s Timeless Performance
Mike Trout, a three-time AL MVP and 11-time All-Star, showcased his enduring talent, going 1-for-2 with a solo home run, three walks, and a stolen base. This made him the first Angels player to safely reach base four times on Opening Day since Darin Erstad in 2000. Trout’s seventh-inning blast, a no-doubter over the left-field train tracks, was his fifth career home run on Opening Day, trailing only Tyler O’Neill and Bryce Harper among active players.
“I felt like myself again out there,” Trout said. “Just being in center and stealing bags. It was a fun win. It’s huge. They’ve got a great team over there. It was a complete win for us.”
Notably, Trout returned to center field for the first time since April 29, 2024, after a stint in right field. He is now the first player in franchise history to start 14 Opening Days and play at least 16 seasons with the club.
Soriano Shines in Debut
Right-hander José Soriano delivered a commanding performance, striking out seven batters over six scoreless innings. He allowed just two hits and four walks, reaching speeds of up to 101.3 mph with his four-seamer. Soriano induced eight ground ball outs and only one flyout.
“I think all my pitches were working today and my command was there,” Soriano said. “But it means a lot. Any time I do something, it’s for the team. To be able to throw that [many] innings and help the team win, that’s the goal.”
Soriano’s outing was a historic one, becoming just the fifth Angels Opening Day starter to throw at least six scoreless innings with seven strikeouts, joining Shohei Ohtani, Jered Weaver, Frank Tanana, and Andy Messersmith.
Suzuki’s Historic Debut
The victory as well marked a special occasion for Angels manager Kurt Suzuki, who became the first Hawaii native to manage a big league game. The Angels players celebrated the win with a celebratory beer shower for their recent manager.
“It’s a good feeling,” Suzuki said. “Just all the function that each and every one of us put in in Spring Training leading up to this moment. Obviously, it’s just Game 1, but still a special moment. You never forget that first one.”
The Angels’ win was their second in the last 13 Opening Day games and their first road victory since April 1, 2013, at Cincinnati.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many Opening Day home runs does Mike Trout have? Mike Trout has five career home runs on Opening Day.
- Who was the Angels’ manager for the Opening Day game? Kurt Suzuki was the Angels’ manager.
- How many strikeouts did José Soriano record? José Soriano recorded seven strikeouts.
Pro Tip: Maintain an eye on Mike Trout’s stolen base numbers this season. His successful steal on Opening Day, combined with his improved running speed, suggests a return to his dynamic, all-around game.
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