Despite boasting the best player in MLB, the Angels finished well shy of the playoffs during a 2016 season that was derailed by injuries, particularly to the starting rotation.
It wasn’t a flashy off-season in Anaheim, but GM Billy Eppler did make some solid additions, bringing in Cameron Maybin, Ben Revere, Danny Espinosa and Luis Valbuena. Playing in the competitive American League West, Los Angeles needs contributions from these newcomers plus a relatively clean bill of health to have a shot at October baseball.
As we approach the 2017 season, we’re previewing what’s ahead for each of the 30 MLB teams. The Los Angeles Angels are next:
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Up-and-coming player to watch
One of the main reasons why the Angels are so dependent on good health in 2017 is because their farm system is widely considered to be one of the worst in baseball. Without a steady supply of young impact players waiting in the wings, Los Angeles is very reliant on its veterans.
However, one up-and-comer to keep an eye on this season will be utility man Jefry Marte. The 25-year-old played in 88 games in 2016, posting a batting line of .252/.310/.481 with an impressive 15 home runs and 44 RBIs.
Marte logged time at first base, third base and left field for Mike Scioscia last year, but does not have a defined everyday role on the club. It’s unknown whether he will start the season in the majors or triple-A, but his versatility makes him a good bet to see plenty of action with the big-league squad.
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What a successful season would look like
Already a two-time MVP (and a runner-up three times), Mike Trout has the ability to put a team on his back and almost single-handedly win them games with his extensive toolkit.
That being said, Trout will need his fellow Halos to do their part if Los Angeles has any hope of contending. The 37-year-old Albert Pujols will once again be counted on to provide thunder in the middle of the lineup, but because Pujols is coming back from off-season foot surgery, it’s fair to wonder how much he has left.
Kole Calhoun will also be relied on to deliver another strong campaign batting ahead of Trout. The 2015 Gold Glove winner has quietly slugged 44 home runs over the past two seasons, generating 7.8 wins above replacement over that stretch.
With Trout anchoring the outfield and defensive wizard Andrelton Simmons manning shortstop, the Angels should be able to hang their hat on their run prevention. Offence could be hard to come by outside of the trio of Calhoun, Trout and Pujols, so a post-season berth seems unlikely. Never count out the best player in the game, though.
The trio of Calhoun, Trout and Pujols will have to carry the load offensively in Anaheim. (Jae C. Hong/AP)
Biggest remaining question
As previously alluded to, the Angels had their starting rotation decimated by injuries one season ago. Andrew Heaney and Nick Tropeano both underwent Tommy John surgery and are expected to remain sidelined for the duration of 2017.
The staff is currently led by Garrett Richards, but he is coming back from a torn UCL, electing to try stem-cell therapy instead of the typical Tommy John. He has impressed early in his MLB career but how productive will he be returning from injury?
Matt Shoemaker is going to need to have a big year to keep Los Angeles in the playoff picture. The right-hander was lights out after the all-star break last season, but his campaign ended prematurely when a line drive fractured his skull in early September.
With youngster Tyler Skaggs and veterans Ricky Nolasco and Jesse Chavez figuring to round out the rotation, Los Angeles may not have enough pitching to hold up in a tough division. If one or more of these projected starters goes down, the Angels’ depth options don’t inspire much confidence.
