Angels Leadoff Links – January 10, 2015

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The first work week of the New Year has come to an end. The first week back after the holidays always drags, but with baseball right around the corner, there is plenty to look forward to in 2015. The Angels Leadoff Links are your source for the articles that mean the most to Halos’ fans from around the FanSided baseball network. Before turning the TV to the NFL playoff games, take a quick moment to catch up on all the best stories you may have missed from the last 24 hours.

Hector Santiago is expected to compete for a spot in the Angels starting rotation this spring in Tempe. Patrick Green of Call to the Pen believes Santiago may be able to put together a quality season in 2015. However, Green also suggests there are plenty of reasons why Santiago could regress in the coming year.

Next: What can we expect from Hector Santiago in 2015?

Dan Haren‘s name continues to be bandied in trade rumors. On Friday, Duncan Marshall of Rox Pile pleaded his case why the Colorado Rockies should steer clear of the 34-year-old right-hander. Haren has remained firm in his refusal to relocate to South Beach, but if a trade out West never materializes, it is hard to fathom he would really walk away from $10 million.

Next: Why Dan Haren Is A Bad Fit For The Rockies

On Thursday, the Angels traded 17-year-old hurler Ricardo Sanchez to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for prospects Kyle Kubitza and Nate Hyatt. This was just the latest in a string of moves made by the Braves this winter in an effort to acquire high upside young arms. Wayne Cavadi of Grading on the Curve breaks down the deals made by the Braves this offseason, including their recent trade with the Angels.

Next: More Pitching Moves for the Braves

It is hard to believe, but former Cy Young winner Max Scherzer is still a free agent. Domenic A. Vadala, editor at Birds Watcher, wonders is the Baltimore Orioles should throw their hat into the ring for Scherzer. The O’s appear to be a bit of a long shot, but there have been consistent rumblings that the Angels may be a dark horse to sign the 30-year-old right-hander. My gut tells me Scherzer ends up back in MoTown, but when Scott Boras is involved, anything can happen.

Next: Should the Baltimore Orioles go after Scherzer?

Ben Zobrist has been at the center of trade rumors all week. It has been suggested that the San Francisco Giants, Washington Nationals, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Angels are showing significant interest in the 33-year-old super utility man. Ricky Keeler, editor of Districk on Deck, wonders if the recent injury suffered by Jayson Werth will prompt the Nats to pull the trigger on a trade for Zobrist.

Next: With Jayson Werth Injury, Is Zobrist More Likely For Nats?

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