Just when you think the Angels have no shot at running down Texas. And they know they have no shot at catching the Rangers and have accepted it. They pull a stunner and work the D-backs in a deal for pitcher Dan Haren. I’d love to tell you I saw that one coming… but that would be a lie. I spoke with their manager Mike Scioscia last Friday and didn’t even ask him about Haren because like most everyone else, I just assumed he was headed to the Yankees.

Photos: Haren's Career

Well, that and because the Angels always target pitchers and are never able to pull the trigger. But they did this time and it’s a great deal for the Angels. And Haren is pitching much better than his record and era indicate. He has a strikeout to walk ratio of nearly 7 to 1, proving he’s still filthy. He eats a ton of innings, goes right to the front of their rotation and really didn’t give up much to get him. Without him, they have no shot at running down Texas. But with him, the 1-2 punch of him and Jered Weaver gives them a shot. Provided they’re not done and can go and get another bat. And who knows what other tricks GM Tony Reagins has up his sleeves. Because I had no idea he had that card in his deck. And I don’t think the Yankees did either.