Angels' bench not lacking for experience

HOUSTON -- Angels manager Mike Scioscia has a little bit more seasoning off his bench this year, with utility infielder John McDonald (39 years old), corner infielder Ian Stewart (29) and backup outfielder Collin Cowgill (27) combining for 1,645 career Major League games.

Stewart got his first start of the season at third base on Monday, Cowgill replaced Kole Calhoun in right field on Saturday and McDonald also started at the hot corner that day. Their tenure in the big leagues -- particularly McDonald, who has spent 16 years as a backup infielder -- certainly makes them better equipped for spotty playing time.

And their presence on the club increases the Angels' depth, with outfielder J.B. Shuck and infielder Grant Green, among others, currently in the Minors and ready to contribute at any time.

"We have the potential, I think, to add to our bench at times within the organization, which is going to help," Scioscia said. "But I think overall we're deeper with some of the guys, as you can see with Grant Green and J.B. in Triple-A. We're a little deeper in some areas than we were last year, which helps."