Red-hot Upton looking at home with Halos

September 9th, 2017

SEATTLE -- The Angels traded for at the start of their nine-game road trip, meaning Upton hasn't even played a game at home for his new team yet.
But, if just strictly looking at his numbers, you might think Upton is right at home with his new team.
Upton had two hits and knocked in two runs in the Angels' 4-3 loss to the Mariners on Friday, continuing a hot stretch for Upton, who was traded from the Tigers to the Angels on Aug. 31. The 30-year-old outfielder is hitting .333/.500/.407 in his first seven games.
"Just focus on your at-bats," Upton said. "Not let the distractions or the changes effect how you go about your business. I've been able to do that so far."
Upton's presence has added length to the Angels' lineup and has been a huge boost for , who hits fourth, right behind Upton. Pujols is hitting .500/.517/.615 and has collected 11 RBIs in five games since Upton's arrival.
"Justin's important to us," Angels manager Mike Scioscia said. "I think if you look at the number of opportunities Albert's had in just the last week, I think you can see where, not only Justin, but Mike [Trout], are really setting the table. To have that kind of a threat in the middle of your lineup, sandwiched between Mike and Albert, is important. And he's going to be important to us down the stretch."
Upton's stint with the Angels has been nomadic so far, as Upton transitioned from one road trip with the Tigers to one with Los Angeles. Moving from one hotel room to another has been a constant.
Once the craziness subsides, Upton is determined to keep his hot streak alive and help the Angels push for a playoff spot. Even though he hasn't been home in more than a week, he feels right at home in the situation he's in.
"Every year you want to have a chance to make the playoffs and play in meaningful games down the stretch," Upton said. "I landed in a good spot."