Angels Leadoff Links – January 19, 2015

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The Angels Leadoff Links are the best cure for the Monday blues. Halo Hangout spins you around the FanSided baseball network highlighting the articles that matter most to Angels’ fans. Unfortunately, it is time to clock in at the old workhouse, but before heading out the door, check out all the news from around baseball you may have missed from the past 24 hours.

The big news on Sunday came out of the nation’s capital, as reports surfaced that the Washington Nationals have reeled in former Cy Young winner Max Scherzer. Pablo Roa, editor of District on Deck, discusses the potential impact adding Scherzer will have on the Nats’ roster in 2015. The Nationals signed the 30-year-old hurler to a seven-year deal late Sunday night.

Next: Reports: Max Scherzer close to signing with Nationals

It was reported Sunday afternoon that the Texas Rangers appear close to acquiring veteran right-hander Yovani Gallardo from the Milwaukee Brewers. 21-year-old infielder Luis Saldinas has been mentioned as potentially being part of the compensation package for the Brew Crew. David Cash, co-editor of Nolan Writin’, breaks down the rumors, and gives his take on Gallardo brings to the Rangers rotation. The 28-year-old would certainly solidify the Rangers rotation, likely functioning as a quality number 3 pitcher behind Yu Davish and Derek Holland.

Next: Yovani Gallardo close to being a Texas Ranger

When the Angels traded Kevin Jepsen to the Tampa Bay Rays earlier this offseason, they knew they were losing a fan favorite. Jepsen was well liked because of his quality performances out of the bullpen, and also his affinity for Carly Rae Jepsen (no relation) songs. Robbie Knopf, editor at Rays Colored Glasses, writes that the Rays have agreed to terms with the 30-year-old reliever on a new one-year deal worth $3.065 million. That seems like a reasonable price for one of the best seventh inning men in all of baseball.

Next: Why Rays' Kevin Jepsen Received $3.065 Million in Arbitration

James Shields is the other big name free agent hurler still on the market. Zane Stalberg of Motor City Bengals believes the Detroit Tigers would be wise to throw bills at the 31-year-old right-hander. Shields is reportedly seeking for a five-year deal worth $125 million, but clubs are only offering four-year deals in the $80 million dollar range.

Next: Bringing James Shields to Motown Makes Sense

Alex Rodriguez has been one of the most polarizing figures in baseball for the past 15 years. As spring training approaches, he will undoubtably be thrust back into the national spotlight. He is returning from a year-long ban for using performance enhancing drugs. Jason Evans, co-editor of Yanks Go Yard, writes that A-Rod is under the impression he will be manning the hot corner for the New York Yankees in 2015. The 39-year-old is said to have overhauled his personality in his year away from the game, but all indictions point to the same old A-Rod showing up to Tampa this spring.

Next: Alex Rodriguez Believes He Will Win The Yankees Third Base Job

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