What the Angels Gained this Offseason

Sep 16, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Nick Tropeano (63) pitches during the second inning against the Cleveland Indians at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

RHP Nick Tropeano (24)

Team Control: 6 years

Tropeano was acquired on November 5th, in the trade that sent Hank Conger to the Astros. He could reach his potential as a mid-rotation starter as early as this season. He’ll be competing for the fifth starters job during spring training and if he doesn’t get it he could be slotted in the bullpen or kept stretched out in AAA for when the need undoubtedly comes for a spot start or more. The Angels have control of him for at least six years as he has not exceeded rookie status.

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He made his Major League debut with the Astros last season and pitched admirably for someone of his age and experience. His stuff is not typical of a top of the rotation starter but he did win the difficult PCL in ERA last year. He relies heavily upon a low-90s fastball and changeup which he commands well, but it’s his developing slider which will determine how far he goes in the majors. MLB.com recently ranked him as the Angels sixth-best prospect heading into the season.

For this season, I expect Tropeano will be the sixth-man in the rotation. If that’s the case the Angels are well set in their depth as most teams don’t have as capable an arm outside of their starting five.

 2015 Fangraphs Steamer Projection – 63 IP  3.80 ERA  0.1 WAR

Next: Carlos Perez