In 1965, Pearson began the season as a pinch-hitter. After Lou Clinton, the right fielder, only batted .200 in April, Angels manager Bill Rigney began using Pearson in a platoon role with him. Pearson, left-handed, would typically get starts against right-handed pitchers while Clinton, right-handed, would typically get starts against left-handed pitchers. On June 12, Pearson had three hits, three RBI, and two stolen bases in a 13–2 victory over the Yankees. In the first game of a doubleheader against the Twins on August 20, Pearson had four hits in a 3–1 victory. Eight days later, in the seventh inning of a game against the Tigers that was tied 3–3, Pearson delivered a go-ahead RBI single against Orlando Peña, providing the margin of victory in a 4–3 win. On August 31, his first-inning home run against Bill Stafford provided all the scoring in a 1–0 win over the Yankees. In 122 games for the Angels in 1965, Pearson had 360 at bats and batted .278 with 41 runs scored, 100 hits, four home runs, and 21 RBI. He only stole 12 bases but also only got caught stealing once all season.