The LA Angels Should Trade for a Jason Vargas Reunion

The LA Angels have lacked a solid starting rotation this series. With injuries to frontline starters Garrett Richards and Tyler Skaggs, the rotation has been inconsistent. The team should target a former Halo who is having a career resurgence.

In 2013, Jason Vargas pitched for the LA Angels. He had a 4.02 ERA and went 9-8 as a starter. This was his only season as a Halo, as they decided against bringing him back for the 2014 season.

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Now, at age 34, Vargas is having a career year for the Kansas City Royals in 2017. He just picked up his 12th win (to only three losses), and owns a 2.22 ERA on the year. With numbers like this, and the expectation that he will be available at the trade deadline, the Angels should definitely bring back the former second round pick.

Vargas will more than likely decline as the year goes on, but it is worth the risk for the Halos. They are within striking distance of a Wild Card spot. A key addition like Vargas could push them over the top. While they will be getting the likes of Richards, Skaggs, and Mike Trout back in time for a playoff push, bringing in Vargas would be a huge plus.

Vargas is 34 years old. He has an expiring contract. His trade value would not be too high. Even with the Angels’ weak farm system, they would definitely be able to strike a deal. Perhaps without even dealing a top ten prospect. A young arm such as Joe Gatto, the Angels’ #24 prospect, plus a couple other players to be named later or cash considerations could get the deal done.

Next: The LA Angels Can Make Some Noise in the Playoffs (they just have to get there first)

Even with Skaggs and Richards coming back, the LA Angels would be smart to not bet on their health and ability to perform. Adding Jason Vargas to a team who could make some postseason noise would be a safe, smart, and a potentially championship winning move.