Five Players Who Will Be Keys To LA Angels Success in 2017?

Sep 12, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) smiles a he turns around 1st base after singling in the 8th inning against the Seattle Mariners at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 12, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) smiles a he turns around 1st base after singling in the 8th inning against the Seattle Mariners at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports /
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Tyler Skaggs – LHP

Tyler Skaggs was an up and coming pitcher in 2013 when the Angels traded Mark Trunbo to the DIamondbacks to get him and Hector Santiago.  However after half a season in the Angels rotation Skaggs tore his UCL in his left elbow and had Tommy John Surgery.

It took Skaggs almost two full years to return to the big leagues which he did on July 26th in Kansas City last season. Skaggs pitched amazingly shutting out the Royals for seven innings allowing only three hits and striking out five batters. His next start was almost as good when he shutdown the Boston Red Sox for 5.1 innings allowing only four hits while striking out eight batters.

Unfortunately the last two months of the season Skaggs struggled to find consistency.  He ended his season with a 3-4 record and a 4.17 ERA in 10 starts.  Skaggs also survived a late season scare when felt pain in his left elbow again.  Luckily for Skaggs and the Angels it was just some residual pain and he was able to make one last abbreviated start before the season ended.

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Skaggs is now ready to go and hopes to be able to pitch a full season for the first time in his career.  He is the only lefty in the starting rotation.  With all the injuries to the starters in 2016, the Angels will rely   on Skaggs and Richards as well as Matt Shoemaker will be keys to success of the team this season.

If Skaggs and Richards can both stay healthy all season which will go a long to improve the team from 2016 going into this season.  I’m hoping Skaggs will go 13-7 with a 3,56 ERA.  If Skaggs can return to form it will be a big boost to the staff.