LA Angels Cam Bedrosian Set to Compete for Closer Role

Cam Bedrosian is one of the LA Angels top prospects, and the most promising  as well who could contribute next year. He was dominating this season before going on the DL with a blood clot in his right arm in early August.

When not fighting injuries, Bedrosian was the LA Angels best late game option this season. After posting 6.52 ERA and 5.40 ERA in 2014 and 2015, respectively, he was able to post a promising statistical line this year. Bedrosian went 2-0 with one save, a 1.12 ERA, 51 strikeouts, and 14 walks in 40.1 innings pitched over 51 games. Now 25, it is time for Bedrosian to go from top prospect to production out of the bullpen.

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While Bedrosian is not in most mock trade articles, there is the possibility that GM Billy Eppler ships him away. Just a year ago Eppler moved young stud Trevor Gott to Washington for third basemen Yunel Escobar. The Angels bullpen is thin, but if Eppler finds the right player, he might not hesitate to pull the trigger.

Bedrosian will be the first choice for the closer role come Spring Training. With Huston Street aging and declining and other candidates being wild cards, Bedrosian will lock down the starting job. A strikeout machine, if Bedrosian keeps his control in check he will be able to effectively close games out. His 96 + mile per hour fastball with a nasty slider to complement helped Bedrosian rise from mediocrity to bullpen stud.

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“It’s all in God’s perfect timing.  This year I gained some confidence and things started coming together,” Bedrosian said in a late season interview. “My dad has been very supportive throughout the process and has always helped me when I have needed him. My faith has always been important as well. Having a strong foundation in Him has been very import.  There is always ups and downs in life, but God is always there. He will never take you where he can’t lead you out of.”

Bedrosian will be the team’s featured set-up man if he does not earn the closing job. His role will be similar to what Joe Smith had done the past seasons before being traded this August. Whether he is a set-up man or closer the Angels will count on big things from Bedrosian.

If Bedrosian had stayed healthy this year, he would have reached double-digit saves, possibly reaching as high as 20. While there are a lot of question marks for next season’s Angels team, a healthy Bedrosian will provide them the support they need at the back end of the bullpen. Closing out games and helping the Angels reach the playoffs, 2017 will be the year of Cam.

2016 grade: B, not full due to injuries.