Angels Look to 2025 with Strategic Adjustments Amidst 99-Loss Season
The Los Angeles Angels are entering the offseason with a determined focus on reshaping their team for 2025, armed with an ambitious plan to avoid a full-scale rebuild. Following a disappointing 99-loss season, the organization is making strategic moves aimed at reversing their fortunes while reinforcing their roster. Under the guidance of owner Arte Moreno, the team is poised to increase its payroll, a decision that reflects their commitment to change and competitiveness.
“The economics for us are pretty good. ... 100%, we are raising our payroll,” Moreno declared. This financial commitment lays the groundwork for the Angels to make targeted acquisitions and strategic contract decisions without dismantling the current team structure entirely.
New Arrivals Dialogue with Experience and Potential
One of the team's notable pickups is Jorge Soler, acquired in what was described as a salary dump trade. Soler's contract, valued at $13 million per year for two seasons, signifies an investment in power and potential as they bolster their outfield options. To further strengthen their pitching staff, the Angels signed Kyle Hendricks to a modest deal worth $2.5 million, a move that signals a focus on depth and reliability.
Behind the plate, the Angels have secured veteran presence with Travis d'Arnaud, on board for two years at $6 million per year, and Austin Hedges, who joins him with a deal valued at $4 million. This combination is expected to provide defensive stability alongside promising young standout Logan O'Hoppe.
Navigating Injuries and No-Trade Clauses
Health and availability of key players remain pivotal as the Angels navigate roster challenges. Unfortunately, Zach Neto is anticipated to miss the start of the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery, while franchise icon Mike Trout played merely 29 games in 2024 following meniscus surgeries. Trout, armed with a no-trade clause, continues to be the cornerstone of the franchise, despite the physical setbacks.
In an effort to shore up their infield, the Angels plan to deploy Luis Rengifo at second base but are also contemplating a pursuit of Gleyber Torres, offering the potential for significant enhancement in that position.
Transition in the Pitching Rotation
The pitching rotation will see some significant changes after Griffin Canning departed following a season with a 5.19 ERA. To reconfigure their rotation, the Angels have expressed interest in possible acquisitions like Taijuan Walker and Marcus Stroman, both of whom bring established credentials to the mound.
Relief pitching also sees new faces and a strategic shake-up. Robert Stephenson is expected to return midseason from Tommy John surgery, while Ben Joyce has been confirmed as the closer, ensuring stability in the late innings. Ryan Zeferjahn and Brock Burke are set to serve as setup specialists, providing further reinforcement and tactical versatility.
Building Blocks for a New Era
The Angels appear focused on forging a balance between experienced and youthful players. Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak are slated as part of a right field platoon, optimizing performance through matchup-based strategies. Amid these roster changes, Logan O'Hoppe remains a key highlight among the pool of young talents, offering a glimpse into the hopeful future of the franchise.
The plans to raise payroll, coupled with strategic acquisitions and careful attention to player injuries, point to an optimistic direction. As the Angels set their sights on a restructured and more competitive team for 2025, these calculated steps reflect their commitment to success. Despite recent hardships, there remains a palpable air of potential surrounding the Angels, as they strive to emerge from a franchise-defining 99-loss season stronger and more determined than before.