Los Angeles Angels: Looking Ahead to 2018

1. Improve the starting rotation

The Los Angeles Angels have several of the pieces they need in their rotation if they are able to take the ball every fifth day. The problem is that having those arms take the ball for their turn has not always worked out as planned.

This past season, Garrett Richards missed most of the year with a biceps issue.Matt Shoemaker made only 14 starts this season, and has yet to make 30 appearances in a season. Tyler Skaggs has plenty of potential, but has also had injury concerns. Bridwell was solid this past season, but can he replicate that success?

Given those injury woes, and the question marks surrounding the rotation, it makes sense for the Angels to look for an arm or two in free agency. A player like Lance Lynn would make sense, as he has made at least 30 appearances in five of his last six seasons. Lynn is also another year removed from Tommy John surgery, and may well be ready to take that next step forward.

It would also make sense for the Angels to consider the top arms on the market. Players like Yu Darvish and Jake Arrieta would give Los Angeles the ace they need, and help take some of the pressure off of Richards to front the rotation. However, adding a piece like Lynn, and another solid middle of the rotation innings eater may be the more prudent move,

The Angels need pitchers that can take the ball every time their spot in the rotation comes up. Given the status of the rotation during the season, that should be the top priority.