Angels Aim to Rebuild Without Tearing Down: A Look Ahead to 2025
As the Los Angeles Angels strive to shake off the remnants of a disheartening 99-loss season, the team is setting its sights on a reinvention strategy that steers clear of a complete rebuild. Owner Arte Moreno has made it clear that the organization is poised for a financial surge to bolster its standing in the coming campaign. In his emphatic words, "The economics for us are pretty good. ... 100%, we are raising our payroll."
Moreno's commitment to spending is already generating palpable changes. The Angels, seeking to invigorate their roster, secured Jorge Soler in a strategic salary dump trade. Soler is now locked in with the team on a contract valued at $13 million per year over two seasons. This acquisition marks a significant step as the franchise aspires to enhance its competitiveness.
Additionally, the Angels have turned to seasoned pitchers to strengthen their lineup. Kyle Hendricks, joining the team on a modest $2.5 million deal, adds depth to the rotation. The signing of catcher Travis d'Arnaud to a two-year contract at $6 million per year further illustrates the organization's strategy to blend experience with potential. Meanwhile, Austin Hedges’s addition at $4 million offers further support behind the plate.
Betting on Young Talent and Veteran Experience
The Angels are steadily constructing a roster that balances youthful promise with veteran reliability. Logan O'Hoppe is one of the standout young players expected to play a vital role. However, the team will likely start the season without Zach Neto, who faces recovery from shoulder surgery and may miss the beginning of the 2025 season. Another setback for the team has been Mike Trout’s limited participation in 2024, where he played only 29 games due to meniscus surgeries. Notably, Trout holds a no-trade clause, keeping him an integral part of the Angels' plans.
On the second base front, Luis Rengifo is set as a dependable option. However, the Angels are also exploring the possibility of acquiring Gleyber Torres to bolster the position further. Meanwhile, in the outfield, Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak are anticipated to share duties as part of the right field platoon, offering flexibility and depth.
Strategic Pitching Moves
The pitching department is also under careful scrutiny, with the Angels making notable changes. Griffin Canning, who rounded off the season with a 5.19 ERA, has been traded as the team aims to optimize its pitching effectiveness. Speculation surrounds the possible acquisitions of Taijuan Walker and Marcus Stroman—moves that would inject seasoned capabilities into the rotation.
Meanwhile, the bullpen sees Robert Stephenson slated for a midseason return from Tommy John surgery, while Ben Joyce remains firmly entwined as the team’s closer. Supporting Joyce, the Angels rely on Ryan Zeferjahn and Brock Burke as their primary setup specialists, underpinning a strategy designed to tighten game finishes.
Challenges and Resilience
The Angels have navigated persistent challenges, notably with Anthony Rendon, who has struggled with injuries, failing to play more than 60 games in any season since 2019. These hurdles, however, have not dulled the organization’s commitment to constructing a resilient and competitive team for the future.
Ultimately, the Los Angeles Angels’ strategic approach to the upcoming season reveals an organization intent on change through smart investments and shrewd player acquisitions. This dynamic blend of young talent and experienced players, combined with a fortified bullpen and pitching staff, positions the Angels as a team ready to turn the tides without resorting to a full-scale rebuild.