The Los Angeles Angels, after enduring a grueling 99-loss season, are gearing up to reinvent their approach for the 2025 campaign. Despite their recent struggles, there are no plans for a full-scale rebuild. Instead, the franchise is directing its efforts towards a strategic rebranding, supplemented by a deeper financial commitment from ownership.
Arte Moreno, the team owner, has made it clear that the Angels are willing to invest more heavily in their roster. "The economics for us are pretty good," Moreno stated. "100%, we are raising our payroll." This commitment suggests a more aggressive off-season strategy, aiming to bring in talent and strengthen their roster for improved performance next year.
Strategic Acquisitions
The Angels have already started reshaping their lineup with significant acquisitions in the form of Jorge Soler and several key pitchers. Soler, secured in a salary dump trade, will contribute both power and experience to the Angels' outfield. His two-year contract, valued at $13 million per year, underscores the team's willingness to take calculated risks in fortifying their offensive lineup.
On the pitching front, the Angels added reliable arms by signing Kyle Hendricks to a $2.5 million deal. The addition of Hendricks, along with bullpen support from Ryan Zeferjahn and Brock Burke as setup specialists, aims to bolster a pitching staff that has struggled in recent seasons. Furthermore, Travis d'Arnaud's two-year, $6 million per year contract adds depth and versatility behind the plate.
These strategic moves, along with smaller investments like Austin Hedges' $4 million signing, reflect a balanced approach to building a competitive roster without breaking the bank.
Addressing Key Challenges
Even as the team sets sights on future success, they face several pressing challenges. Chief among these is the uncertainty surrounding some of their star players. Mike Trout, who remains a cornerstone of the franchise, was limited to only 29 games in 2024 due to meniscus surgeries, casting doubts over his availability and durability moving forward. Despite holding a no-trade clause, Trout's limited appearances exacerbate the pressure on the Angels to produce results.
Meanwhile, Zach Neto's potential absence at the start of the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery compounds these concerns, making internal depth and external acquisitions crucial.
Reconfiguring the Roster
In the absence of significant homegrown contributions, the Angels are experimenting with versatile lineup strategies. The right field platoon of Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak offers some promise, while the second base position appears open to competition, with Luis Rengifo expected to feature prominently. Rumors also suggest that the Angels might pursue Gleyber Torres, adding intrigue to how the middle infield will shape up.
The Angels made the tough choice to part ways with Griffin Canning, trading him after a season-ending 5.19 ERA. However, to offset this loss and enhance their starting rotation, the Angels have shown interest in pitchers Taijuan Walker and Marcus Stroman, both of whom could provide much-needed stability and leadership on the mound.
The Path Forward
Despite the challenges, the Angels are placing significant emphasis on their emerging talent. Logan O'Hoppe is recognized as a standout young player with the potential to make a major impact. Additionally, Ben Joyce is poised to secure the closer role, offering a glimpse into the future leadership of the Angels' bullpen. The return of Robert Stephenson from Tommy John surgery midseason also promises to bolster their pitching depth following his recovery.
Moreover, Arte Moreno's expressed commitment to increasing payroll reflects a promising shift in strategy that not only responds to their need for talent but also addresses fan expectations following years of unmet potential. Though recent seasons have been marred by setbacks, the Los Angeles Angels are clearly positioning themselves as contenders in the coming years, blending experienced acquisitions with youthful exuberance.
With the groundwork being laid for 2025, the Angels look to transform their fortunes and reassert themselves in the MLB landscape. All eyes will be on how these calculated decisions play out as they strive for a comeback on the diamond.