How Do Angels’ Relievers Match Up Against Other Bullpens?

Where would the Angels be without their bullpen? They wouldn’t even be in the playoff picture, to be quite honest. However, the relief core wasn’t a strength until June 27th, when the first of many trades bolstered the back end of the pen.

Struggling right-hander Ernesto Frieri to Pittsburgh for Jason Grilli, who has been very solid in 40 appearances. The addition of All-Star closer Huston Street solidified roles for every relivers and proved vital in sporting one of the league’s best bullpens.

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So, how does this Angels bullpen stack up against potential postseason opponents?

On paper, this team can match up against anyone, though Baltimore may give the Angels the most fits. Both teams have over 30 wins in relief and compiled more than 50 saves. The Orioles won four out of the six meetings, allowing only 17 runs. a deadline deal to acquire Andrew Miller from Boston gaven them a left-handed specialist out of the bullpen.

Kansas City Royals also brings trouble. They allowed a 3.50 team ERA through the year. The Angels and Royals split six early season meetings that came before a series of trades to help the bullpen.

Oakland would be another possible ALDS opponent, and it is well known how good the pitching of the A’s is. Oakland was in the top four in all MLB pitching categories.

No doubt the Angels will have their hands full regardless of who their opponents are. In the postseason it is expected that each team throws out tough pitchers every night, but the Angels have great pitching themselves.

Yes, September has been a little bit of a struggle but in the playoffs, anything can happen.