Mock Trade: LA Angels and Baltimore Orioles

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The LA Angels are in an awkward spot with the trade deadline approaching. Should they buy or should they sell? This series will analyze a trade with each team. Some teams will buy from the Halos, some will sell, but all will trade.

The LA Angels are just a few pieces away from making a serious playoff push. The Baltimore Orioles are in the same position, yet they have been more vocal of selling at the deadline.

The Orioles have a lack of starting pitching prospects in their farm system. Their major league starters have been equally disappointing, with an ERA just shy of 6.00. The Angels, meanwhile, have only one lefty in their bullpen. Despite both of them being in the purgatory between buying and selling, they would definitely be able to make a deal.

The LA Angels not only add a left-handed arm to their bullpen, they add an elite one. Britton has posted a 2.81 ERA this season as a closer for the Orioles. The only left-handed reliever currently in the Halos bullpen is Jose Alvarez. While he is having a solid season, he can’t pitch every night. Britton would be an even better option, and even be able to close games out for the Halos, as he has five saves on the year.

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Britton’s contract does expire this year, so it could very well be a rental. Nonetheless, the Angels would still have to give up a substantial amount for the two-time All Star and former Cy Young candidate. The main piece here would be Parker Bridwell, whom the Angels acquired from the Orioles earlier this season. Bridwell, who has had his ups and downs this season, has proven that he can be part of a major league rotation. He has gotten better throughout the season, collecting a 3.18 ERA thus far. At 25 years old, Bridwell will soon be entering his prime, and has shown he can be a top-of-the-rotation arm.

Next: Mock Trade: LA Angels and Atlanta Braves

Also included in this trade is right-handed pitcher Joe Gatto. Gatto, drafted in 2014, has yet to make his MLB debut. He has spent this season in Single-A, owning a 3.75 ERA thus far. He is still just 22, and can still do what he needs to to make it as a starter in this league.

The Angels making a trade like this would be risky. However, if they think they could sign Britton to a multi-year deal after trading for him this season, it might just be worth it.