Los Angeles Angels Eyeing Marcus Stroman to Bolster Starting Rotation
MLB Insider Links Stroman to Angels as They Seek a Front-Line Starter
The Los Angeles Angels are exploring options to strengthen their starting rotation during the offseason, with MLB insider Mark Feinsand linking them to Marcus Stroman, a multi-time All-Star pitcher who became a free agent after declining his team option with the Chicago Cubs.
Key Takeaways:
- The Angels are in need of upgrades within their starting rotation.
- Marcus Stroman, a veteran front-line starter, is available in free agency.
- Stroman’s 2023 season had some ups and downs, with injuries affecting his second half performance.
- Despite challenges, Stroman’s strong pitching in the first half could be an asset for the Angels.
- The Angels have been lacking a big-time pitcher, and Stroman could help fill that gap.
- Acquiring Stroman could be a crucial move for the Angels to boost their competitiveness in the upcoming season.
The Los Angeles Angels are wasting no time addressing their offseason needs, and one area that requires immediate attention is their starting rotation. As they aim to reinvigorate their roster and make a strong push for contention, the Angels have set their sights on veteran pitcher Marcus Stroman, a former multi-time All-Star who recently entered free agency.
The speculation surrounding Stroman’s potential move to the Angels comes courtesy of MLB insider Mark Feinsand, who reported on the team’s interest. Stroman’s decision to decline his team option with the Chicago Cubs has made him one of the most sought-after pitchers in this year’s free-agent market.
The 2023 season showcased Stroman’s ability to perform at a high level, albeit with some fluctuations in his performance throughout the year. While the second half of the season presented challenges, including injuries that affected his effectiveness on the mound, Stroman’s early-season dominance did not go unnoticed.
“It seemed like a foregone conclusion that Stroman would opt out of the final year and $21 million of his contract after his All-Star first half, during which he went 9-6 with a 2.96 ERA. An inconsistent second half marred by injuries caused some to question whether it was the right move, but Stroman opted out to test the free-agent market. Teams will have to consider whether or not they’re getting the All-Star version of Stroman when it considers signing him, though he has enough of a track record (3.65 career ERA over nine seasons) that he should command a nice contract.”
During his time with the Chicago Cubs, Stroman proved his worth as a reliable starter, and the Angels could benefit from his solid pitching skills. His potential addition to the team would provide much-needed stability in the rotation, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding Shohei Ohtani’s future with the Angels.
Furthermore, Marcus Stroman’s reputation as a big-time pitcher aligns with the Angels’ aspirations to elevate their competitive status. If Ohtani decides to part ways with the team, Stroman could play a pivotal role in maintaining the Angels’ competitiveness and keeping them in contention.
The Angels have recognized the urgency of addressing their starting rotation, and the potential acquisition of Marcus Stroman looms as a promising solution. As they continue their offseason preparations, securing a front-line starter like Stroman could be the key to fast-tracking their journey back to playoff contention.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Angels are actively exploring options to bolster their starting rotation for the upcoming season. Marcus Stroman’s availability in the free-agent market has caught their attention, and his addition could be a game-changer for the team’s competitiveness. With their sights set on contention, the Angels are determined to address their needs, and acquiring Stroman may be a significant step in the right direction.
