LA Angels Instant Analysis: The New Guys

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Blake Parker delivers a pitch against the Kansas City Royals. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports /

The final new guy on the LA Angels roster is relief pitcher Blake Parker. Parker was a dark horse to make the roster for the Angels this season. He had an remarkable Spring Training though. Parker showed his strikeout ability by sending 24 hitters back to the dugout over 12.1 innings pitched. This included striking out 17 batters in a row. Parker deserved a roster spot but has yet to show he can translate spring success to into effectiveness in games that count against top-tier talent.

Parker also made headlines when he bought an RV to live in with his wife and stepson instead of an actual living space. He has spent most of his career with the Chicago Cubs, but bounced around last season.

He has appeared in seven games so far this season. Parker has thrown a total of six innings while giving up four runs (three earned) for a 4.50 ERA. He has continued to strike batters out though, sending ten batters down on strikes. He has excellent command of the strike zone, only allowing one free base so far this season.

While he is proving to be a strikeout specialist, Parker has not been the Angels first choice out of the bullpen. He has allowed at least one run in half of his appearances. Until he can show that he can manage a game instead of just striking players out, Parker will continue to allow runs at an uncomfortable rate.

Next: How great is the Angels new defense?

Overall, the new Angels have impressed. They have filled holes that were desperate causes at the beginning of the offseason. Each of the players talked about will play an important role as the Angels look to end their losing streak and be in playoff contention come September.

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