Bench coach Ebel replaces Scioscia for two games

TORONTO -- Bench coach Dino Ebel will serve as the Angels' manager against the Blue Jays on Friday and Saturday, as Mike Scioscia is away from the club to attend his daughter's college graduation.

Ebel, who has managed in the Minor Leagues and in the Dominican Winter League, was honored to get the nod, even if it will only be for two games.

"It's always exciting when you have the [lineup] card in your back pocket," Ebel said. "Sitting next to Mike day in and day out and hearing the way he talks about the game ... you always learn. In this game, since Day 1, I'm not a guy who is going to shut his ears off when people are talking."

Ebel said the coaching staff got together earlier in the week and mapped out certain lineups and situations for the Toronto series, so he feels well prepared to take over. He also said he will be calling Scioscia after each game to update him about the team's play.

"I think I need to do that," Ebel said. "Let him have a peace of mind."