Kendry Morales, the sixth player to make his major-league debut with the Angels this season, had three hits in his first three at-bats Tuesday and hit a home run in his second at-bat.
Morales, who was called up Monday night after playing a game for Triple-A Salt Lake, arrived Tuesday and was in the starting lineup at first base, batting fifth. He also made a key defensive play in the 7-6 victory over the Rangers that ended a six-game losing streak.
Morales fielded a bunt aimed at becoming a sacrifice in the eighth inning and made a strong throw to second to get the lead runner. His decision helped protect a one-run lead. He took a gamble that paid off.
Morales is a switch hitter who is likely to be in the lineup most days, even though he won't become 23 for another month.
"It's a lot to ask of a youngster to come up and hit in the middle of the lineup, but that's where we are right now," manager Mike Scioscia said.
REPLAY: Tommy Murphy's leaping catch against the center field fence in the ninth inning allowed the Angels to end a six-game losing streak with a 7-6 win over the Rangers.
Francisco Rodriguez, the sixth Angel pitcher, earned his 11th save but his first in 13 days.
The teams will conclude their series Wednesday afternoon.