The Los Angeles Angels Rotation Is It’s Own Answer

Tyler Skaggs
6 Starts, 3-2, 3.03 ERA, 1.16 WHIP

While Richards was supposed to be the ace, Tyler Skaggs was simply supposed to eat innings. He’s done much more than that, with impressive back-to-back outings against Houston and the Yankees, and giving the Angels the reliable starter they so desperately needs. Unlike Richards, Skaggs throws a first strike nearly two-thirds of the time, allowing him to set up his curveball for later in the count.

This is a big year for Skaggs. Since missing the entire 2015 season recovering from Tommy John surgery, he’s been beset with one thing after another. 2018 is the first season in four years where he’s started with a completely clean bill of health and a guaranteed rotation slot

Scioscia has put his trust in Skaggs, and Skaggs has rewarded his manager by throwing more innings and more pitches than anyone else (though that’s party a function of him merely being able to stay healthy), while allowing just two homers thus far. Count on Scioscia riding Skaggs’ left arm more and more as the season progresses.