Angels Eyeing Key Pitching Additions to Rebound in 2023 Season
The Los Angeles Angels are determined to strengthen their rotation this offseason and compete for a playoff spot next year.
In a bid to bounce back from another disappointing season, the Los Angeles Angels are gearing up for the 2023 campaign with a clear focus on shoring up their pitching rotation. Despite uncertainties surrounding the future of two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, the Angels are determined to field a competitive squad and climb back into playoff contention.
Key Takeaways:
- The Angels are committed to improving their starting rotation this offseason.
- They aim to avoid handing out massive contracts, prioritizing team-friendly deals to maintain flexibility.
- Three free-agent pitchers stand out as potential targets: Hyun-Jin Ryu, Luis Severino, and Jordan Montgomery.
- Hyun-Jin Ryu: After spending the past four years with the Toronto Blue Jays, Ryu appears to be on the market. The left-hander brings a wealth of experience and could offer veteran leadership to the Halos’ rotation. In his last season with Toronto, Ryu showcased his skills with an impressive 3.46 ERA, making him a viable option as a third or fourth starter without breaking the bank.
- Luis Severino: Severino, though facing challenges in recent years, still possesses the potential to be a productive pitcher when healthy. Despite a rocky start in 2022, he improved as the season progressed, hinting at a potential rebound. The Angels could consider signing him on a one-year deal as a reclamation project, hoping to harness his talent to reinforce their rotation.
- Jordan Montgomery: While the Angels could potentially pursue bigger names like Sonny Gray, Jordan Montgomery presents an intriguing option due to his youth and impressive performance this year. His outstanding form could earn him a lucrative contract, providing the Angels with a top-tier starter for the foreseeable future while potentially weakening a division rival’s pitching staff.
The Angels’ offseason moves are set to be crucial in their quest to return to postseason contention. By strategically targeting pitchers who can complement their existing talent, they aim to address their rotation needs while maintaining financial flexibility. With the right acquisitions, the Halos could become a more formidable force in the American League West, making the 2023 season one to watch for Angels fans.
