Angels Strategize for 2025: Aiming High Without a Full Overhaul
Following a challenging 99-loss season, the Los Angeles Angels are attempting an audacious endeavor as they strategize for a turnaround by 2025. The team, owned by Arte Moreno, aims to retool instead of embarking on a total rebuild, and the plan includes significant financial investments.
Investment in Talent
The Angels are not shying away from bolstering their roster with key acquisitions. In a strategic move, Jorge Soler joins the team following a salary dump trade, bringing his formidable batting capabilities at $13 million annually over two seasons. Meanwhile, veteran pitcher Kyle Hendricks signed a conservative yet promising $2.5 million deal to strengthen the pitching rotation.
In efforts to solidify the squad, the Angels have also secured Travis d'Arnaud for two years at $6 million per season, along with signing Austin Hedges for $4 million. These acquisitions reflect the team's commitment to assembling a competitive roster without dismantling the current structure.
Adding depth to the lineup, the Angels are considering bolstering their second base options. Luis Rengifo stands poised to assume the role, but rumors suggest interest in acquiring Gleyber Torres to further enhance the roster's flexibility.
Raising the Payroll
On the financial side, Arte Moreno has confirmed that the Angels plan to significantly raise their payroll, a move indicative of the team's dedication to success. “The economics for us are pretty good. ... 100%, we are raising our payroll,” he stated, underscoring the organization’s firm stance on enhancing its competitive edge for the upcoming season.
Managing Injuries and Uncertainties
Despite the optimism, the Angels must navigate around injury challenges. Prominent player Mike Trout, plagued by meniscus surgeries, appeared in only 29 games during the 2024 season. However, with a no-trade clause in place, Trout remains a cornerstone around whom the Angels intend to build.
As the team looks ahead, it must also contend with Zach Neto's potential absence at the start of the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery. In addition, Anthony Rendon's ongoing struggle to exceed 60 games in a season since 2019 poses yet another hurdle.
The Angels face uncertainties among their pitching lineup as well. Griffin Canning, having concluded the season with a 5.19 ERA, was traded away. Meanwhile, Robert Stephenson aims to make a midseason return from Tommy John surgery, leaving a temporary void. Nevertheless, the Angels’ bullpen shows promise, with Ben Joyce secured as the closer and Ryan Zeferjahn and Brock Burke serving as setup specialists.
New Prospects and Returning Stalwarts
Despite these hurdles, the Angels are banking on a dynamic mix of seasoned veterans and promising talents to drive their resurgence. Logan O'Hoppe emerges as a standout young player, poised to play a vital role in rebuilding the team's fortunes.
In the outfield, Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak are set to share responsibilities in the right field platoon, bringing fresh energy and potential to the team's offensive lineup. The pursuit of pitchers Taijuan Walker and Marcus Stroman reflects management’s intent to further bolster the team with reliable talent.
As the Angels forge ahead, balancing optimism with realism will be key. The commitment to reinvesting in talent signals a strong intent to compete at the highest levels. Despite injury setbacks and performance uncertainties, the Angels’ management remains steadfast in their commitment to delivering a winning team for their devoted fanbase.