The Los Angeles Angels were one of the most active teams ahead of the trade deadline, securing several key players to strengthen their roster. Adding Lucas Giolito, Reynaldo Lopez, CJ Cron, and Randal Grichuk from various teams, they made significant moves to bolster their chances in the remaining games of the season.
Even on the deadline day, the Angels weren’t done making moves. Just before the 3 p.m. deadline, they struck a deal with the New York Mets, acquiring right-handed pitcher Dominic Leone. This addition was aimed at further reinforcing the team’s bullpen, alongside Lopez.
Among the flurry of deals happening around that time, the Leone trade somewhat slipped under the radar. However, Angels General Manager, Perry Minasian, expressed great enthusiasm about the team’s final addition. Leone, who had a 4.40 ERA in 30.2 innings with the Mets this season, displayed promising numbers with 33 strikeouts and only 11 walks. While the Angels already had high-leverage arms like Lopez and All-Star closer Carlos Estevez in their bullpen, they recognized the need for a reliable middle relief option, which Leone is expected to provide.
Minasian anticipates Leone to perform even better for the Halos in the remaining games of the season. It’s not uncommon for players to elevate their game when transitioning from a struggling team to a contender pushing for success.
Though Leone may not have been the Angels’ most high-profile addition at the deadline, he has the potential to make a significant impact for the team in the coming games.
Having been added to the active roster on Wednesday, Leone is expected to make his debut for the Angels during the upcoming four-game series against the Seattle Mariners, which starts on Thursday night. The Angels are hopeful that Leone’s presence in the bullpen will further solidify their chances of success in the rest of the season.
