MLB: Four Teams Primed for Sneaky Good Seasons in 2017
By Travis Koch
Los Angeles Angels
Mike Trout may have four years remaining on his current contract; however, the opportunity is fading for the Los Angeles Angels to prove worthy of the league’s best player. The team has made the playoffs only once in Trout’s career, the result was a first round series sweep at the hands of the rising Kansas City Royals. That was only three seasons ago, but it feels like an eternity. Could 2017 be the year the Angels return to the playoffs?
Overview
Health will be the key to the Angels’ season. Their starting pitching rotation consists of Garrett Richards, who is recovering from a torn tendon in his knee; Andrew Heaney and Nick Tropeano, each recovering from Tommy John surgery; Tyler Skaggs, formerly a victim of Tommy John surgery; and Matt Shoemaker, whose last image from 2016 was a line drive heading toward his face. Heaney and Tropeano will not be ready for opening day. Ricky Nolasco and Alex Meyer will fill out the Angels rotation.
The health of 36-year-old Albert Pujols will also be key. Pujols’ power will be heavily relied upon in the middle of the lineup.
If the pitching can hold up, the team appears to be in good shape. Their offense looks very promising. Mike Trout will lead the way, and the bats of Albert Pujols and C.J. Cron will clean up the table set by Cameron Maybin and Kole Calhoun. Maybin will allow either Yunel Escobar or Andrelton Simmons to drop in the lineup, to a more suitable spot.
The Angels have an outstanding closer in Huston Street. Aside from the ninth inning, they’ve struggled mightily in middle and late relief over the past few years. The team is hoping repeat performances from Andrew Bailey and Deolis Guerra will solve that issue. Newly acquired Jesse Chavez provides a very reliable middle relief option for Los Angeles.
Realistic Result
A deep American League will see a Wild Card race to game 162, maybe even 163. The Los Angeles Angels look to be a part of that race. The American League West may be the most competitive division in 2017. The Texas Rangers, Houston Astros and Seattle Mariners all pose a serious threat to a division title. Los Angeles will have to stay in contention in the West. However, a realistic possibility has them fighting for a Wild Card spot.