ANGELS FLYING HIGH AFTER 9-1 HOMESTAND.

Byline: Marc J. Spears Daily News Staff Writer

Almost two years have passed since the Angels choked away an American League West crown, but Bill Bavasi is still embarrassed by it.

When Seattle visited Anaheim for a three-game series this week, the Angels general manager wanted to make a statement against the club that overcame a 13-game Angels' lead in 1995, then won the A.L. West in a one-game playoff.

``We want to stay close, make them uncomfortable, nip at their heels, hope they trip over a rock and we run over them,'' Bavasi said. ``I'm inspired and motivated by the job Seattle did on us in '95.''

The Angels eased Bavasi's pain by winning two straight against Seattle, scoring a combined 29 runs. But more important, Anaheim's recent play not only made a statement to the Mariners but also put the club in position to make one to the rest of the league.

The victories over Seattle completed its second-most-productive homestand in club history. By winning nine of 10 games, the Angels pulled into second place, percentage points ahead of Seattle and 2 games behind Texas.

After enduring a tough early-season schedule, the Angels have the opportunity to challenge Texas for the West's top spot. During the next 18 games, Anaheim will meet some of the A.L.'s worst teams. The toughest part of the competition lies at the beginning, when it plays three this weekend at Toronto (23-19).

``We've played good competition since the first month,'' said Angels manager Terry Collins. ``Any time you come home and beat the teams that we beat and played tough, it gives you a psychological edge that you can compete.''

Although the Blue Jays are in third place in the A.L. East, the Angels will get a break by missing Roger Clemens (8-0).

When the Angels return to American soil they will play nine games against two last-place teams in Oakland (18-29, West) and Minnesota (18-27, Central). Also, Anaheim, has six games against two second-to-last-place teams in Detroit (19-25, East) and Kansas City (20-23, Central).

After coming home weary from a 10-game road trip on May 12 with five straight losses and a 14-19 record, the outlook seemed bleak.

Lurking ahead were Chicago, Baltimore, Milwaukee and Seattle.

But instead, the Angels dominated, outscoring opponents 82-57.

``We were feeling pretty down when we came home,'' said Angels shortstop Gary DiSarcina. ``This gives the whole team confidence. This was a breath of fresh air.''

The Angels' run-scoring has made the offense the least of the club's concerns. A challenge, however, is getting the pitching staff to stay productive, get healthy and avoid any more injuries.

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