Up next for Rays: Angels

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Angels

Tonight-Sunday

What's new: The signing of free-agent CF Torii Hunter bolstered their lineup and the acquisition of RHP Jon Garland helped offset injuries to RHPs Kelvin Escobar and John Lackey. But their sterling 22-14 record is also due to improvement by LHP Joe Saunders (6-0, 2.61), RHP Ervin Santana (6-0, 2.02) and 1B Casey Kotchman (.333, six HRs, 21 RBIs). INF Chone Figgins (right hamstring) and 2B Howie Kendrick (left hamstring) may not be back yet.

Key stat: Kotchman, the St. Petersburg native and Seminole High product, has a .371 average, four HRs and 13 RBIs in 13 games against the Rays.

Connections: Kotchman and Figgins (Brandon High) are locals; pitching coach Mike Butcher was with the Rays in 2006. Rays manager Joe Maddon, coaches George Hendrick and Bobby Ramos, OF Nathan Haynes are former Angels.

Series history: Angels lead 63-23 overall, 28-19 at the Trop.

Marc Topkin, Times staff writer