LA Angels Make Pitching Changes Ahead of Homestand

As the LA Angels headed back to Anaheim for a season-defining stretch, they were also deciding on a few important pitching changes that could make or break the series.

On Monday, the LA Angels announced they would be making four relative moves. The activated left-handed starter Tyler Skaggs while also calling up relief lefty Jose Alvarez. These moves were counteractive to right-handed pitchers JC Ramirez and Andrew Bailey both being moved to the disabled list.

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Tyler Skaggs was on the Bereavement List prior to his activation. After the passing of his grandfather, Skaggs took time away from the team. Skaggs has been nothing short of amazing since his return from the DL, owning a 2.93 ERA in his first three starts. He will take the mound on Monday in hopes of continuing his dominance.

However, as the Halos gain a starter back they also lose one in the form of JC Ramirez. Ramirez has made the shift from the bullpen to the rotation this season. The surplus amount of innings seem to be catching up with him though, as he hits the 10-day DL with forearm irritation. He leads the Angels with 10 wins on the season, and will hopefully miss no more than two starts.

Ramirez was not scheduled to start until Thursday. In his place will likely be Troy Scribner or Jesse Chavez. Chavez was recently demoted to bullpen duties, as he owns a 6-10 with a 5.24 ERA this season. Scribner has made two starts (four appearances) for the Angels this season. He owns a 3.00 ERA in his two starts, and is the favorite to take the mound as he was removed from his last Tripe-A start early.

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The bullpen will also look different for the Halos. Andrew Bailey, who was just activated earlier this month, is headed back for the DL with a right shoulder strain. He only pitched one inning since his return, allowing one hit in a shutout inning.

Replacing him with be Jose Alvarez. Alvarez has spent time in Anaheim and Salt Lake this year, excelling in Triple-A. In 45 appearances for the Halos this year, he owns a 4.50 ERA. In Salt Lake, that number goes to 2.31. The Angels are lacking a lefty specialist in their bullpen, so Alvarez will have a defined role.

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The Angels currently sit at 64-60 and are in possession of the second AL Wild Card spot. They are hoping these moves help them secure that spot as they enter the season’s home stretch.