Yusei Kikuchi struck out a season-high 12 batters over seven strong innings for the Los Angeles Angels in a 5-2 win against the Boston Red Sox that secured a three-game sweep on Wednesday.
Kikuchi (3-6) allowed two unearned runs on just three hits and a walk at Angel Stadium to pick up his third win and lower his ERA to 2.79 in 17 starts this season. He was backed offensively by Jo Adell and Travis d’Arnaud who each contributed a home run and two RBIs.
Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi delivers during a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox on June 25, 2025, in Anaheim, California. (AP/Kyodo)
After an error-marred first inning, in which the Red Sox scored both their runs, the Japanese southpaw got on track to finish one strikeout shy of his Major League Baseball career-high of 13.
His 1.12 ERA in eight home starts is currently the best mark in the majors, according to MLB.com.
“I was conscious of using my breaking ball to prevent batters from narrowing down my pitches,” Kikuchi said.
“When I’m at my best, I get a lot of strikeouts and don’t allow many walks. I’ve been feeling good regarding this the last three or four games.”
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