The Los Angeles Angels have signed pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, but to become competitive, they need to make additional significant moves, including acquiring more starting pitchers and possibly pursuing Juan Soto. Kikuchi's recent performance improvement, particularly his effective slider, offers some hope, but the Angels' current roster lacks depth and quality, making further acquisitions essential for contention.
The Los Angeles Angels have signed Yusei Kikuchi to a three-year, $63 million contract, marking their most expensive deal in five years. With a focus on improving their competitiveness, the Angels are considering several strategic moves, including trading Tyler Anderson and Christian Moore, re-signing reliever Carlos Estévez, and potentially cutting ties with Anthony Rendon. The team is also exploring options to strengthen their roster, such as acquiring a new third baseman and considering trades for players like Taylor Ward.
The Los Angeles Angels have signed left-handed pitcher Yusei Kikuchi to a three-year deal, marking a significant early move in the MLB offseason. Kikuchi, 33, was expected to receive a three-year contract, but the Angels' offer is considered on the higher end, reflecting their aggressive approach to the offseason. This signing could signal a trend in the market for mid-tier starting pitchers.
The MLB offseason is heating up with Juan Soto meeting with teams like the Blue Jays, Red Sox, Mets, and Yankees, as clubs vie for the superstar outfielder. The Angels have been active, trading for Jorge Soler and signing Kyle Hendricks and Travis d’Arnaud, potentially signaling a move away from Matt Thaiss. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays face uncertainty over their stadium situation, with repairs to Tropicana Field possibly delaying their return until 2026, leaving their immediate future in limbo.
The Los Angeles Angels have signed veteran catcher Travis d'Arnaud to a two-year, $12 million contract after the Atlanta Braves declined his option. D'Arnaud, who will serve as a backup to Logan O'Hoppe, brings experience and leadership to the Angels, who are looking to improve after a disappointing season. The Angels are building around stars like Mike Trout and young talents, aiming to compete in 2025 while avoiding anti-tanking penalties. D'Arnaud's addition is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the team's roster and pitching staff.
Veteran catcher Travis d’Arnaud has signed a two-year, $12 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels, leaving the Atlanta Braves where he played for five seasons and was instrumental in their 2021 World Series run. The move reunites him with manager Ron Washington and GM Perry Minasian in Anaheim. The Braves, who declined d’Arnaud's $8 million option, now have Sean Murphy, Chadwick Tromp, and prospect Drake Baldwin as their catching options.
The Los Angeles Angels have signed veteran catcher Travis d'Arnaud to a two-year, $12 million deal, following his release from the Atlanta Braves. This move comes as the Angels also hire former Braves catching coach Sal Fasano as an assistant pitching coach. The Angels designated right-hander Guillo Zuñiga for assignment to make room for d'Arnaud. The signing adds to the Angels' payroll, which is projected to increase next year. Meanwhile, the Angels are considering their options with catcher Matt Thaiss, who is out of options and eligible for arbitration.
Kyle Hendricks, a free agent pitcher, has signed a one-year, $2.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels. The 34-year-old, who previously played for the Chicago Cubs, posted a 5.92 ERA last season but improved in the latter half. The Angels hope Hendricks will bring consistency and mentorship to their young pitching staff. Hendricks, originally from the Los Angeles area, was part of the Cubs' 2016 World Series-winning team and has a career record of 97-81 with a 3.68 ERA.
Kyle Hendricks, the last remaining player from the Chicago Cubs' 2016 World Series team, is finalizing a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Angels. The 35-year-old pitcher, known for his cerebral approach, is returning to his Southern California roots. Despite a challenging final season with the Cubs, Hendricks' experience and composure are expected to benefit the Angels' pitching program.
Kyle Hendricks, a former Chicago Cubs pitcher, has signed with the Los Angeles Angels, marking the first free-agent move of a former Cub this offseason. Hendricks, who has struggled in recent seasons, will be closer to his southern California home, suggesting this may be his final season as he turns 35 soon.
The sons of former Red Sox stars David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez were drafted on the final day of the 2024 MLB draft, with D'Angelo Ortiz going to the Boston Red Sox in the 19th round and Lucas Ramirez being selected by the Los Angeles Angels in the 17th round. The draft concluded with 300 picks over three days, and teams will now begin contract negotiations with their new prospects.
The San Diego Padres were swept by the Los Angeles Angels, marking a significant setback as they struggle against teams with losing records. Despite remaining in playoff contention, the Padres' inconsistency, especially in crucial moments, is a growing concern. Manny Machado emphasized the need for improvement and consistency, particularly after suffering a mild hip injury during the series. The team must address these issues to avoid further detrimental losses.
Seattle Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford hit a grand slam off Los Angeles Angels starter Reid Detmers in the fourth inning, extending the Mariners' lead to 5-0. This was Crawford's fourth home run of the season, and he now has 15 RBIs. Detmers was pulled after giving up five earned runs in 3 2/3 innings.
Los Angeles Angels infielder Miguel Sano has suffered a setback in his rehabilitation from left knee inflammation after burning himself with a heating pad. Sano, who hasn't played since April 26, may face additional recovery time. The Angels, already struggling with a 20-33 record and missing key players like Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon, continue to face challenges this season.
Los Angeles Angels infielder Miguel Sanó suffered a minor setback in his rehab from left knee inflammation after burning his knee with a heating pad, delaying his return by a few days. Manager Ron Washington shared the unusual injury update, noting that Sanó's mistake was not using padding with the heating pad. Despite the blunder, the Angels are dealing with more serious injuries to key players like Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon.