Watching Angels is heaven

THE ANGELS are about the most fun team in baseball, with perennial MVP candidates Mike Trout (league-leading 1.183 OPS) and Shohei Ohtani and many exciting young stars. But one scout wondered where the Angels will get late-season innings with a rotation of kids, an ex-reliever (Michael Lorenzen) and an all-time great and hitter/pitcher (Ohtani), who’s obviously doing two big jobs. … Kris Bryant’s back pain is said to be mild, and the hope is he won’t miss much more time.

➤ The Rangers bought a half-billion dollar doubleplay combo last winter, but the plan is to emphasize pitching next year. … The Rangers bid about $140 million early for Trevor Story (from nearby Irving, Texas) but told him they wanted to go early, before the lockout. Corey Seager was their clear No. 1 choice, though, so Story likely would have been playing 2B. He got the same deal and position in Boston.

➤ With Aaron Judge an early MVP candidate (he and Trout look like favorites), even though this year’s performance isn’t supposed to factor in, the Yankees should settle his arbitration case ($17 million vs. $21 million is the split, to be decided in June 22 hearing). … Isiah Kiner-Falefa heard for years from his grandfather John Kiner that he is related to Hall of Famer Ralph Kiner, and after having a DNA test done last year found out he is likely the fourth cousin twice removed from the slugging/ broadcasting great.

➤ New Diamondbacks pitching coach Brent Strom’s influence is already felt. Huge start for the stunning D’backs rotation (2.43 ERA). … Even bigger surprise: Guardians hitters. They are top six in most every category. … Jesus Luzardo, throwing 99 mph, was a nice pickup by Marlins GM Kim Ng for a rental (Starling Marte).

➤ Player of the Week: Reid Detmers, Angels starting pitcher.