In somewhat of a surprise to anyone but Angels fans, the Los Angeles Angels are currently in a heated battle for the AL Wild Card. One reason why, starting pitcher Parker Bridwell has been nothing short of excellent.
The LA Angels’ Parker Bridwell has a unique asset to him which is kind of historic and unheard of. He’s a streak killer. On Sunday, Bridwell yet again ended another Angels losing streak by pitching seven strong innings only allowing two earned runs on six hits and one walk, putting an end to their three game losing streak.
But this is not the first time Bridwell has ended a losing streak for the Angels. In fact, this is his fourth time doing so.
Bridwell has stopped streaks on July 5 against Minnesota, on July 28 against Toronto, on August 8 against Baltimore and now September 10 against Seattle. This not only shows that Bridwell has great poise on the mound, but it also shows that Bridwell can be clutch in certain situations, something the Angels can use as they chase for the wildcard spot.
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The most incredible thing about all of this is just how the Angels acquired him.
Looking for starting pitching depth in the minor leagues, Angels’ GM Billy Eppler traded for Bridwell by offering the Baltimore Orioles cash or a PTBNL, virtually nothing.
Since being acquired from Baltimore, Bridwell has pitched 96 innings with an ERA of 3.94 and a WHIP of 1.27, easily being the Angels most consistent starting pitcher this season. Heck, if not for a few rough starts recently, his ERA would be even lower.
Although his 61 strikeouts in 96 innings is nothing to be excited about, Bridwell makes up for it with his control. In his outings, Bridwell has only allowed 23 walks and his repertoire of pitches including his slider and four-seam fastball allows Bridwell to eat up innings keeping batters off-balance.
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With players such as Tyler Skaggs, Andrew Heaney and Garret Richards all coming back from injury, Bridwell is a starter that Angels fans should start to become familiar with. Don’t be surprised if Bridwell’s name is called upon when the Angels need a good start.