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Angels’ Albert Pujols hits 100-RBI milestone for fifth time in career

Los Angeles Angels' Albert Pujols hits a two-run home run during the fifth inning Saturday against Texas.
(Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press)
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KEY MOMENT: With the Angels up 3-0 in the fifth inning, Albert Pujols clubbed a two-run home run over the center-field wall. With the way Jered Weaver was pitching, the Rangers probably weren’t going to rally anyway, but Pujols’ blast left no doubt. The Angels went on to win, 8-5.

AT THE PLATE: With the home run, Pujols became the fifth player to reach 12 100-RBI seasons by the age of 35. He joins Alex Rodriguez, Jimmie Foxx, Lou Gehrig and Al Simmons. Pujols and Howie Kendrick each had three hits. Mike Trout chipped in with two hits, two RBIs, three runs and a home run, and David Freese added a three-run home run.

ON THE MOUND: Weaver continued his recent dominance. He threw seven innings of two-run ball and struck out seven. Over his last five starts, he has maintained a 2.18 earned-run average, with 30 strikeouts. In the sixth inning, Weaver reached 1,400 career strikeouts, becoming the 17th American League pitcher to reach that mark in his first nine seasons.

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HAMILTON UPDATE: To treat pain and spasms in his rib cage, Josh Hamilton received seven injections, he said Saturday. “I think I’m radioactive,” he joked. Hamilton said he felt better than he did on Friday and hopes he can return for the playoffs.

AWARDS: In a pregame ceremony, the Angels named injured pitcher Garrett Richards the Nick Adenhart Award winner, given to the Angels’ pitcher of the year. Trout was named most valuable player.

UP NEXT: Right-hander Cory Rasmus (3-1, 2.57 ERA) will face Rangers right-hander Nick Tepesch (5-10, 4.32) on Sunday at Angel Stadium at 12:30 p.m. On the air: TV: FS West. Radio: 830, 1330

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