This is going to be a strange offseason for the Los Angeles Angels.
Typically, the Angels would be spending somewhat frivolously in a desperate attempt to return to the postseason for the first time since 2014. There is a great deal of pressure on the franchise, especially as Shohei Ohtani is a year away from free agency and Mike Trout is getting older. However, Arte Moreno is looking to sell the team, making it unlikely that they will be shopping at the top of the market this offseason.
Three players for Los Angeles Angels to target
Those potential spending restraints aside, that does not change the fact that the Angels need a lot of work. They could use another arm or two in the rotation, a great deal of help in the bullpen, and pieces throughout the lineup. As great as Trout and Ohtani may be, they cannot carry this team by themselves. It is time that they get enough help to make a difference.
The Los Angeles Angels have a lot of work to do if they are going to contend in 2023. Let’s look at some possible targets during the offseason.
Ross Stripling
The Los Angeles Angels almost had Ross Stripling before.
Stripling and Joc Pederson were set to be sent across Los Angeles, with Luis Renfigo and a prospect heading to the Dodgers. Such a move would have given the Angels another desperately needed arm while adding a solid bat to the lineup. Instead, owner Arte Moreno got impatient as the two sides were waiting for a three team deal involving the Twins, Red Sox, and Dodgers to be finalized, canceling the deal.
The Angels have what could be a solid beginning to the rotation next year. Ohtani has emerged as a top of the rotation arm. Patrick Sandoval and Jose Suarez have displayed the potential to be middle of the rotation options. It is possible that Reid Detmers can build on a strong final three months to 2022 to join that group. However, other pieces are going to be needed, especially if the Angels decide to stick with a six man rotation.
Even if they revert to a more traditional five man rotation, they are going to need that sixth arm at times. Stripling has typically worked in a swingman role, sliding between the rotation and a long relief spot. While he had a strong showing as a starter last year for the Blue Jays, teams may be more comfortable with him in his previous role. The Angels could be his best chance to spend more time in the rotation, even if he ends up seeing time in the bullpen.
The Los Angeles Angels almost had Ross Stripling three years ago. In this case, it may be better late than never.