The Los Angeles Angels Open Cactus League Against Milwaukee Brewers

Feb 24, 2015; Tempe, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Hector Santiago (53) throws during a work out at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Hector Santiago Makes Spring Debut Today

Hector Santiago is currently in the midst of competing for the final spot in the Angels’ starting rotation. He spent 2014 with the Halos, going 6-9, and posting a 3.75 ERA. General Manager Jerry Dipoto announced in an interview last week that Santiago is amongst the Angels best 12 pitchers, and is guaranteed a spot with the club in 2015. Whether he will pitch as a starter or reliever is still to be determined, but Santiago will get a chance today to set the tone for what we hope is a very productive spring.

Until Garrett Richards tore his left patellar tendon on a muggy night at Fenway Park in Boston, Richards had the look of a potential Cy Young winner. Richards’ recovery is progressing exceptionally well, but he will likely be unavailable until mid April. Obviously, Richards’ absence opens up another spot in the Angels’ rotation. Hector Santiago is the early favorite to fill in for Richards in April, and a strong spring would solidify Santiago’s status.

Hector Santiago has reportedly looked good this spring in Tempe, and it will interesting to see what the southpaw can do against some of the better hitters in the league this afternoon.

Next: Josh Rutledge Gets First Start of Spring