The Los Angeles Angels are currently 43-29 and in first place in the American League West.

The Angels were expected to battle the Seattle Mariners all season long for the division title, but the showdown has failed to come about because of the latter’s implosion.

Instead, the Angels find the rebuilding Oakland Athletics as their surprise competition for the division crown.

Things are really looking up for the Angels, as they have no real heavyweights to compete against in their division and pitcher John Lackey has returned to the starting rotation healthy and effective.