The Los Angeles Angels are almost in position for the season. There are some position battles that need to be addressed before we begin.
For the Los Angeles Angels, Spring Training is a chance for the unlikely heroes to earn a spot on the 40-man roster. There will be series of position battles for the Angels. For example, the battle of closer will be a good one to watch. Huston Street, Cam Bedrosian, and Andrew Bailey will all attempt to play their way into the role.
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While Street has the advantage, Bedrosian has the talent. Last season, Bedrosian had a 1.12 ERA in 40 innings pitched, throwing 51 strikeouts. Street battled injury last season, however, his ERA over 20 innings pitched was 6.45. Bailey played well last season, filling the role of closer during Streets absence. Bailey compiled a 2.38 ERA in 11 innings pitched.
2017 is a redemption year for Street who missed significant time during the 2016 season. However, Angels general manager Billy Eppler has the reliance of Bailey and Bedrosian.
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Another interesting position battle for the season will be the starting rotation. The projected lineup is Garrett Richards, Tyler Skaggs, Matt Shoemaker, Ricky Nolasco, and Jesse Chavez. However, the Angels have a variety of capable pitchers coming to Spring Training. Alex Meyer will be one to keep an eye on. Also, Bud Norris will likely have a strong role on the Angels roster.
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Meyer came to the Angels last season, along with Nolasco, in the trade that sent Hector Santiago to Minnesota. Meyer showed promise last season, throwing 24 strikeouts in 21 innings. His ERA wasn’t as low as it could be (4.57). However, he’ll likely grow as the season progresses. Norris is a veteran pitcher who tasted the playoffs last season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, his 6.54 ERA last season is not a good sign.
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Angels manager Billy Eppler has been vocal about rolling with youth when it comes to pitching. Certainly, the Angels will look to have a ton of depth pitching-wise. Health will be a huge key for the Angels on the mound this season. All eyes will be on Richards and Street during Spring Training.