Jerome Williams’ Return May Force Angels to Send Garrett Richard to Minors

According to Alden Gonzalez, Garrett Richard may soon be heading back to the minors, and the reason isn’t

necessarily performance-based.  There simply aren’t enough roster spots available to keep him on when Jerome Williams returns from injury.

Richards has been successful this season in his 27 innings-pitched.  He has a 1.67 ERA and a 1.69 K/BB ratio.  He has walked a few too many hitters, but he hasn’t let them score for the most part.  Richards is just 24 years old and is in his second stint with the Major League club.  Last season, he made three starts and pitched 14 innings.  He struggled in those starts and posted a 5.79 ERA in 2011.  However, pitching from the bullpen seems to suit him.

Williams was placed on the disabled list back on June 21st after shortness of breath caused him to pass out in the Angels’ clubhouse.  When Williams hit the DL, the Angels reactivated Jered Weaver from his short DL stint.  Now, when Williams returns, barring any unexpected injury, he will force Richards out.

Williams was 6-5 with a 4.46 ERA in 13 starts before hitting the DL.  He has seven years of Major League experience including this season, and he’s posted a 4.24 ERA in his career.  He will remain with the Angels over Richards if push comes to shove because he is a starter and the Angels need the rotation help.

"“I think our bullpen is developing some depth,” Scioscia said. “What we don’t have is, from an organizational viewpoint, starting pitching depth outside of the six terrific starters we have here.”"

If a roster spot opens up, Richards will certainly remain with the team.  He is an asset out of the bullpen, but with the Rangers just 4.5 games up, the Angels will need the starting pitching if they’re going to catch up.

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