Los Angeles Angels: Jesse Chavez And The Rest Of The Pitching Staff

The Los Angeles Angels added a new pitcher to potentially be a part of the starting rotation.

Recently, the Los Angeles Angels added veteran relief pitcher Jesse Chavez to the roster. Chavez signed a one-year 5.75 million dollar deal with the Angels. Chavez has pitched as a starter for Oakland in 2015. He pitched in 26 games in 2015.

In nine seasons, Chavez has a career ERA of 4.54. He also has a 26-40 career record as an MLB pitcher. He has never pitched a shutout, nor has had a complete game. Chavez has two saves in his career with the Oakland A’s.

Since his 2015 season Chavez has taken a back seat in a variety of ways. His innings pitched were almost decreased by 100 going from 157 to 67. Of those 67, 41.1 were pitched in Toronto and 25.5 were pitched in Los Angeles with the Dodgers.

Statistically, the signing of Chavez was a huge gamble. Granted, he isn’t signing a huge contract; however, the Angels really need an All-Star pitcher. Sure, we have Garrett Richards, but there’s so much uncertainty with him coming off of Tommy John that he’s just not a 100% sure thing.

I for one, think Chavez would be a great addition to the bullpen. I was surprised to learn he was signed as a starter. As a result, the Angels bullpen will have it’s core starters. Garrett Richards, Tyler Skaggs, Matt Shoemaker, and Ricky Nolasco are likely to be the remaining starters.

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J.C. Ramirez will also get a chance to earn a starting spot during Spring Training. It will be interesting to see if another MLB pitcher will be added to this Angels roster. Additionally, the Angels have until the end-of-day today to decide if they are going to sign the Rule 5 prospects to the 40-man roster.

The players left un-added will be eligible for the Rule 5 Draft that will be held during the Winter Meetings on December 8th. The Angels have 6 players that would be eligible for the Rule 5 Draft. Of those six is Nate Smith and Jesus Castillo who have spent time with the Angels.

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I would expect the Angels to sign Smith and Castillo to the 40-man and use them in the bullpen. This will help take the pressure off of the starting rotation and allow for the Angels to rest starters and keep players healthy next season.