Sun May 18 20:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Angels Soar Over Dodgers in Freeway Series Opener
**LOS ANGELES -** The Los Angeles Angels defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-2 in the opening game of the Freeway Series on Friday night, fueled by a strong pitching performance from Jack Kochanowicz and timely hitting.
Kochanowicz (3-5) delivered 6 2/3 innings of one-run ball, striking out five and walking four, marking his first consecutive winning starts of the season. The Angels’ offense jumped on Dodgers starter Dustin May early, with Yoán Moncada launching a two-run home run in the first inning. May (1-4) struggled, surrendering four runs on six hits over five innings.
The Angels extended their lead in the fourth when Zach Neto drove in two more runs with a double. While the Dodgers attempted a comeback with a solo home run from Shohei Ohtani and an RBI double from Max Muncy, the Angels responded with a two-run single by Nolan Schanuel in the ninth to seal the victory.
Key to the Angels’ success was their defense, turning four double plays behind Kochanowicz, tying a Dodgers record. Moncada left the game in the ninth after aggravating a right thumb injury. Dodgers rookie Hyeseong Kim’s streak of reaching base ended at nine plate appearances.
Looking ahead, Dodgers LHP Clayton Kershaw is set to make his season debut on Saturday, while LHP Tyler Anderson (2-1, 2.58 ERA) will take the mound for the Angels.
First Piper 