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Weaver hopes to continue early season magic against Jays

Apr 10, 2011 - 3:08 PM (Sports Network) - Jered Weaver hopes to continue his brilliant start to the season this afternoon when the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim play the rubber match of their three-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays at Angel Stadium.

Weaver has been terrific in winning his first two starts, surrendering just one run and five hits in 13 innings, while striking out 12. He hasn't opened a year with three straight victories since 2006 when he was won in his first nine decisions - two shy of the AL record for consecutive wins to start a career.

The 28-year-old right-hander beat Tampa Bay his last time out on Wednesday, holding it to a run and three hits in 6 2/3 innings. He also struck out six in the win.

Weaver could be in line for another win today, as he is 6-1 lifetime against the Jays with a 2.93 ERA in seven starts.

The Angels could certainly use a big outing from their ace this afternoon, as their bullpen could be taxed following Saturday's 14-inning victory. Los Angeles finally pulled out the win when Maicer Izturis singled in Peter Bourjos, lifting the Halos to a wild 6-5 triumph.

Izturis, who knocked in two runs, was one of three Los Angeles players to have three hits. Bobby Abreu and Torii Hunter also had three hits apiece as the Angels won for the third time in four games.

The Angels used nine pitchers, the last of whom was Dan Haren (2-0), who made his first relief appearance since October 3, 2004. He threw one inning to get the victory.

"Our pitchers did a terrific job and they managed to get out of some stuff," Angels manager Mike Scioscia said. "We got a key hit from Izzy and what Dan Haren did is what he's all about. He's all about the team. He's a special player."

Toronto, which had 13 hits, three fewer than the Angels, got three hits and a pair of runs scored from John McDonald. However, the Blue Jays went 3-for-23 with men in scoring position and left 18 runners on base.

"Tough game, we created numerous opportunities, but we couldn't come up with the big hit," Blue Jays manager John Farrell said. "Our bullpen was great, but tough loss."

Heading to the hill for the Blue Jays today will be lefty Jo-Jo Reyes, who couldn't get out of the fourth inning in his season debut on Wednesday. Reyes surrendered five runs and nine hits over 3 1/3 innings to the Oakland Athletics, but did not get a decision.

Reyes, though, beat the Angels the only other time he faced them, holding them a pair of runs in eight innings.

Anaheim won six of nine matchups from Toronto a year ago, though the clubs did split six games held at Angel Stadium.