New Look, Same Ambitions: Angels Aim for Transformation Without Rebuild
The Los Angeles Angels are at a crossroads as they pursue a revitalized roster for the 2025 season. Following a disappointing 99-loss season, the team is looking to shake off their struggles while avoiding a complete rebuild. The approach is bold but comes with a clear objective: to be competitive without starting from scratch.
Owner Arte Moreno remains optimistic about the Angels' financial outlook. "The economics for us are pretty good. ... 100%, we are raising our payroll," he asserted, signaling a commitment to bolster the team's talent pool. This financial push lays the groundwork for strategic acquisitions aimed at strengthening the Angels’ lineup and pitching staff.
New Faces on the Diamond
The offseason has already seen the Angels make some intriguing moves. Notably, they acquired Jorge Soler in what was labeled a salary dump trade. With a contract valued at $13 million per year for two years, Soler adds power potential to their lineup, a much-needed boost following Mike Trout’s injury-plagued 2024 season. Trout, who holds a critical no-trade clause, managed just 29 games last year due to surgeries on his meniscus.
Enhancing their roster further, the Angels have made several notable signings. Veteran pitcher Kyle Hendricks joins the team with a cost-effective $2.5 million deal, while catcher Travis d'Arnaud brings experience behind the plate with a two-year, $12 million commitment. Additionally, catcher Austin Hedges was secured for $4 million, ensuring depth at the position.
There’s also emerging talent in the mix. Logan O'Hoppe is touted as one of the Angels’ standout young players, ready to make his mark moving forward. However, the team will face early challenges as promising infielder Zach Neto may miss the beginning of the season recovering from shoulder surgery.
Revamping the Infield and Pitching Arsenal
In the infield, Luis Rengifo is penciled in for second base duties, though the Angels are rumored to be eyeing Yankees’ Gleyber Torres to solidify their lineup. Meanwhile, the outfield will see Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak share right field responsibilities as part of a platoon system designed to maximize their respective strengths.
The Angels' offseason maneuvers extend to their pitching roster as well. Griffin Canning, who ended last season with a 5.19 ERA, has been traded, making room for potential new arms. The organization is considering bringing in Taijuan Walker and Marcus Stroman, both of whom could infuse reliability into the starting rotation.
In the bullpen, the return of Robert Stephenson is anticipated by midseason following Tommy John surgery. Meanwhile, fireballer Ben Joyce is a lock as closer, backed by setup specialists Ryan Zeferjahn and Brock Burke, forming a crucial part of the team’s late-game strategy.
The Rendon Dilemma
Anthony Rendon presents another challenge for the Angels, as injuries continue to plague his tenure with the team. Since 2019, Rendon hasn’t played more than 60 games in a season, prompting questions about his contribution moving forward. Rendon's ability to return to form could significantly influence the Angels’ success as they seek stability in their veteran lineup.
The Angels’ vision for the 2025 season involves a careful balance of sticking with proven talent, nurturing young stars, and opportunistically signing skilled veterans. As they gear up for the upcoming season, this potentially transformative strategy might just be the dynamic shift needed to reinvigorate the franchise.