Angels Leadoff Links – January 4, 2015

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It is hard to believe, but pitchers and catchers will be reporting to spring training in 47 days. The Angels Leadoff Links are here to get you ready for the upcoming season by bringing you the stories that matter most to the Angels. So pour yourself a cup of joe, pop a couple waffles into the toaster and take a seat. It is time to catch up on the best stories from the talented writers around the FanSided baseball network.

David Warren, co-editor of Friars on Base, believes 2015 will be a make or break season for San Diego Padres’ skipper Bud Black. Black served as the Angels pitching coach for seven seasons, including guiding the arms on the 2002 World Series winning team. Black is one of the better managers in baseball, but with the talent the Padres have acquired this offseason, expectations will be high next season.

Next: It Is A Make-Or-Break Year For Padres Manager Bud Black

The Boston Red Sox have been dangling Brock Holt as trade bait all offseason. Holt was connected to the Halos back at the winter meetings, but the Red Sox asking price scared the Angels off. Brandon Nickel, co-editor of BoSox Injection, believes the club should come to their senses and hang onto the super utility man in 2015.

Next: Brock Holt: The Bolt to Spark Victory

Kristian Cartelle of Marlin Maniac writes that Dan Haren has officially requested a trade from the Miami Marlins to a team on the west coast. Haren has suggested in the past that he would embrace a reunion with the Angels, but it appears the Halos have little interest. Who can blame Haren for wanting to pitch in Southern California, but it is hard to believe he is ready to walk away from $10 million for geographic reasons.

Next: Dan Haren to Marlins: I'd like to pitch elsewhere

Tim Richer of District on Deck wonders if the Washington Nationals will be forced to make the impossible choice of extending Stephen Strasburg, or re-signing Jordan Zimmermann. Both pitchers are considered among the best in the sport, and both are set to become free agents within the next two years. If one, or both of these hurlers reaches the open market, the Angels would likely be first in line to sign them.

Next: Zimmermann vs. Strasburg

Jacob R Misener, co-editor of Cubbies Crib, updates Cubs fans on the status of backstop Welington Castillo. The Chicago Cubs have been shopping Castillo this winter, and a couple clubs competing in the American League West have shown interest.

Next: Welington Castillo and the Cubs - where do we stand?

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