Angels Leadoff Links – December 29, 2014

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The Halo Hangout Leadoff Links are your source for pertinent stories from around the FanSided baseball network relating to the Angels. More and more general managers are snapping out of the holiday spirit by the hour, which warms baseball fans’ hearts. FanSided writers had plenty to say about the American League West on Sunday, even a potential trade involving the Halos and Brock Holt was proposed.

Zane Stalberg of Motor City Bengals believes the Detroit Tigers should bank on perennial All-Star pitcher Justin Verlander returning to form, rather than throwing cash at free agent hurler Max Scherzer. The Angels have been linked to Scherzer this offseason, but a signing appears unlikely unless they can trade C.J. Wilson away.

Next: The Detroit Tigers Should Count On Verlander, Not Re-Sign Scherzer

Matthew Loper of BoSox Injection suggests that the time has come for the Boston Red Sox to part ways with super utility man Brock Holt. The Angels reportedly had interest in Holt during the winter meetings in early December, but alas the Red Sox’s asking price was too high. Loper suggests the Sox would be interested in Joe Smith. While the Angels may still have some level of interest in Holt, a trade involving Smith appears unlikely. The Halos recently traded away Kevin Jepsen, and dealing Smith would not make much sense.

Next: Brock Holt: The time is now for the Red Sox to make a move

SoDo Mojo co-editor Dan Hughes wonders if the Mariners should enter the sweepstakes for Nick Swisher. The charismatic Swisher has been on the trade block all offseason, and the Indians appear eager to make a move. On the surface, trading for Swish makes plenty of sense for a Seattle club still searching for an everyday right fielder.

Next: Indians Would Like To Trade Nick Swisher, Mariners An Option

The Texas Rangers reportedly have interest in Chicago Cubs catcher Welington Castillo. Emily Gruver of Cubbies Crib breaks down the situation, and points out the glaring need for a new backstop in Arlington.

Next: Chicago Cubs talking Welington Castillo with Texas Rangers?

Juan Pablo Aravena of Cubbies Crib writes that current Texas Rangers centerfielder Leonys Martin would be an intriguing trade candidate for the Chicago Cubs. Martin has been a very important player for the Rangers over the past couple of years, and the Angels would certainly be glad to see the back of him.

Next: Leonys Martin might be a possible trade target

More from LA Angels News

Baseball fans across North America are holding out hope there are still some headlines left to write before the ball drops in Times Square on Wednesday night. Either way, the talented writers here at FanSided provide readers with more than enough quality material to satisfy your hankering for baseball.

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