Garrett Richards out for season with knee injury

Richards, 26, fell awkwardly during the Angels' 8-3 win over the Boston Red Sox in MLB on Wednesday.

The right-hander tore his left patellar tendon and needs surgery, which will result in up to nine months on the sidelines.

Richards was enjoying a standout campaign with a 13-4 win-loss record in 26 starts and an ERA of 2.61.

The Angels hold the best record (75-50) and are top of the American League West.

Manager Mike Scioscia said Garrett's loss was a blow, but hopes his pitchers can stand up in his absence.

"You're going to be thinking of Garrett once every fifth day when he was out there," he said.

"You might not be able to replace that, but it doesn't mean that we're not going to be able to reach our goal as a cumulative pitching staff."