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MLB Trade Deadline: AL West roundup with Rangers, Angels, Astros wishlist, A’s and Mariners for sale

ByBeau Adams|
DENVER, CO - JULY 29: Brent Rooker #25 of the Oakland Athletics celebrates after hitting a sacrifice fly in the sixth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on July 29, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - JULY 29: Brent Rooker #25 of the Oakland Athletics celebrates after hitting a sacrifice fly in the sixth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on July 29, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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Carlos Estevez, Los Angeles Angels
Jun 8, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels relief pitcher Carlos Estevez (53) earns his 16th save in the ninth inning against the Chicago Cubs at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Buying the AL West: The Los Angeles Angels

The trade deadline in Major League Baseball is fast approaching, and the Los Angeles Angels (54-51) find themselves amid trade rumors. As the Angels push for a playoff spot, they are exploring potential deals to strengthen their roster. Today, we will analyze the latest trade rumors surrounding the Angels and discuss the potential impact of these deals.

One of the biggest storylines surrounding the Angels is the future of Shohei Ohtani. The two-way superstar has been the subject of trade speculation, but recent reports indicate that the Angels are unlikely to trade him. Ohtani has expressed his desire to remain with the team and compete for a playoff spot. While there is always a chance that things could change before the trade deadline, it seems that Ohtani will stay put in Los Angeles.

Despite the likelihood of keeping Ohtani, the Angels are still exploring potential trades to bolster their roster. One name that has been mentioned in trade rumors is Jeimer Candelario of the Washington Nationals. The Angels have reportedly been in touch with the Nationals regarding a potential deal for the third baseman. Adding Candelario would provide a much-needed boost to the Angels’ lineup, especially with Anthony Rendon sidelined due to injury.

Candelario, the switch-hitting third baseman from the Washington Nationals, is available. Candelario has demonstrated significant improvement this season, slashing .254/.335/.813 with 16 home runs and 52 RBIs. These numbers surpass his previous career highs, indicating his potential for even greater success. With the Angels in need of players who can hit the ball and generate runs, Candelario’s skill set would make him an excellent fit for their lineup.

The Nationals’ Lane Thomas is hitting .287/.335/.812 with 16 HR, 64 Runs and 12 SB. He is 27 with two years left of club control; trading for the pair of Nats would be perfect for the Angels and reasonably cheap. Sending Mike Moustakas and his expiring contract with 2B Kyren Paris and prospects RHP Mason Erla and OF Jairo Pomares would work magnificently.

Another area of focus for the Angels is their pitching staff. The recent acquisition of Lucas Giolito from the Chicago White Sox has already strengthened their rotation. Giolito, along with Reynaldo Lopez, was traded to the Angels in exchange for prospects Edgar Quero and Ky Bush. Giolito brings a wealth of experience and has proven himself a reliable starter. His addition should provide a significant boost to the Angels’ playoff hopes.

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