Los Angeles Angels finally land top of the rotation starter
By David Hill
The Los Angeles Angels have been trying for years to address the starting rotation. They had reportedly been in on every top free agent arm, but failed to land any of them. Instead, they had attempted to cobble together a pitching staff with one year contracts and bandages, most of which did not work out.
While the Angels signed another pitcher to a one year deal, this one comes with a great amount of upside. Noah Syndergaard is heading to the west coast to give the Angels a potential ace in their rotation.
BREAKING: Right-hander Noah Syndergaard and the Los Angeles Angels are in agreement on a one-year, $21 million deal, pending physical, sources tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 16, 2021
The Angels bolster their staff with the highest-upside arm on the market — and pay a heavy price, plus a second-rounder.
Los Angeles Angels take a chance on Noah Syndergaard
Syndergaard comes with an incredible amount of risk. Due to Tommy John surgery and numerous setbacks, he has thrown all of two innings in the majors in the past two years. While it is difficult to get much of an idea as to his health, the velocity was there and he was able to complete those innings without further injury.
More Angels. Ohtani feels he can be even better in 2022. light
If healthy, Syndergaard gives the Angels the top of the rotation starter that they desperately need. He has posted a career 3.32 ERA and a 1.162 WHiP over his 718 innings, striking out 777 batters with 166 walks.
But his health is a major question. He has missed time in four of the previous five seasons, dealing with finger issues and a partially torn lat muscle. His one year deal in Los Angeles makes sense for both sides as the Angels can avoid long term risk if Syndergaard is injured again, while the former All Star can look to parlay this deal into a hefty contract if he can stay healthy.
If nothing else, Syndergaard is a message to the rest of the Angels. The front office is showing that they are serious about addressing the pitching staff as opposed to simply paying it lip service. However, Syndergaard alone is not going to solve all of the Angels’ issues – they still need another starter and to address the bullpen. He is just a nice start to the offseason.
Next. 3 moves for the Angels this offseason. dark
The Los Angeles Angels finally have their top of the rotation starter in Noah Syndergaard. He just needs to stay healthy to make an impact.