Jered Weaver Solid in First Start of Season and Tyler Skaggs Looking Healthy
After a career-worst season in 2015 that saw his velocity dip to the low 80s and ERA balloon to 4.64, Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Jered Weaver went six innings while only allowing one run in a win against the Texas Rangers on Sunday.
Weaver managed to strike out four despite only throwing his fastball around 82 mph. He was able to use his off-speed pitches to keep hitters off balance, and that could be a major positive for the Angels if Weaver can keep it up for an extended period of time.
At 33, Weaver still should have a few solid years left in the tank – and the Angels will have to hope the veteran can figure out how to effectively pitch without a dominant fastball.
Almost the polar opposite of Weaver, Angels lefty Tyler Skaggs returned to action for the first time since August 2014 after undergoing Tommy John Surgery. The 24-year-old made his debut for Triple-A Salt Lake City and went three innings while only allowing one run with one strikeout. According to Tyler Blake Ward of InsideTheHalos.com (via MLB Trade Rumors), Skaggs fastball stayed in the 91-93 mph range, which is right in line with his pre-Tommy John numbers.
A midseason return by Skaggs could be a major boost to the Angels rotation if any of their other starters falter. Skaggs looked promising in his first season with the Angels as he posted a 4.30 ERA with a 3.55 FIP, and at only 24, he has plenty of developing left to do.
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