The Los Angeles Angels are preparing to pivot their trajectory after a challenging 99-loss season. Under the guidance of owner Arte Moreno, the team is strategizing a new direction for 2025, aiming to improve its standing while avoiding a full-scale rebuild. In an ambitious move, the Angels plan to increase their payroll, which reflects Moreno's confidence in the team's burgeoning financial health, as he stated, "The economics for us are pretty good. ... 100%, we are raising our payroll."
The Angels have already begun shaping their roster for the upcoming season through strategic acquisitions and signings. Notably, Jorge Soler was brought on through a salary dump trade, with a contract valued at $13 million per year over two seasons. In addition, Kyle Hendricks inked a $2.5 million deal, enhancing the pitching staff's depth. The Angels further solidified their roster by signing Travis d'Arnaud for $6 million per year across two years, and Austin Hedges for $4 million, aiming to bolster both their lineup and defense.
As the team readjusts, there remains an optimistic focus on youth and potential, evident in the praise for Logan O'Hoppe, recognized as one of the standout young talents. However, not all roster adjustments avoid complications; Zach Neto may miss the start of the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery, which could affect the team's early lineup options. Additionally, Mike Trout, one of the Angels' marquee players, grappled with injuries in 2024, playing only 29 games due to meniscus surgeries. Trout's contractual no-trade clause is a significant factor as the team navigates its strategic decisions.
While Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak are set to share duties in right field, the second base position remains a point of interest. Luis Rengifo is expected to take the role, although the Angels might consider targeting Gleyber Torres to further strengthen the infield. The trading of Griffin Canning, following his 5.19 ERA season, indicates a willingness to shuffle the roster, with Taijuan Walker and Marcus Stroman emerging as potential pitching targets.
The Angels' pitching strategy also anticipates the return of Robert Stephenson midseason after Tommy John surgery, while Ben Joyce is locked in as the team’s closer. Setup duties will be managed by Ryan Zeferjahn and Brock Burke, adding reliability and experience to the bullpen strategy.
Chronic injuries continue to cast a shadow over the Angels' plans, particularly the status of third baseman Anthony Rendon, who has struggled to play more than 60 games since 2019. This ongoing absence has been a notable challenge in maximizing lineup effectiveness.
Despite these hurdles, the team remains resolute in its vision for transformation without a wholesale rebuild. Through calculated roster moves and the commitment to raising payroll, the Angels demonstrate a clear focus on reclaiming competitiveness. This blend of veteran leadership and youthful dynamism positions them uniquely, as they seek to re-establish themselves as contenders in the league. As they look ahead to the 2025 season, the upcoming months will be crucial in revealing the effectiveness of these strategic changes and their impact on the Angels' on-field performance.