Could the LA Angels Still Make a Big Move?

The LA Angels were relatively quiet at the trade deadline. They dealt veterans Martin Maldonado and Ian Kinsler, but missed out on any big name returns. However, they may still have a chance.

For the LA Angels, their focus should be on 2019 from this point forward. General manager Billy Eppler does love staying competitive though, and with the waiver trade deadline still active, perhaps he could still add a big name.

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Last year, Eppler traded for Justin Upton in hopes of recruiting him to stay in Anaheim for years to come, and was successful in his endeavors by inking Upton to a five-year extension last winter. Maybe he has the same trick up his sleeve this season.

Of the most notable names, there are a few that make sense for the Halos. The first is an old friend in Ervin Santana. He has only thrown 10.1 innings this season, but has allowed seven runs in that time. In 2017, however, Santana finished seventh in Cy Young voting with a 3.28 ERA. Maybe the Halos can swing a deal with the Twins in hopes of resigning Santana to a team-friendly deal and bouncing back in 2019.

Another starting pitcher to watch is Tyson Ross of the San Diego Padres. He has posted a 4.41 ERA this year and will likely be dealt to a contender. However, if the Halos can offer the best prospect to add to the Padres’ phenomenal farm system, the recruiting of Ross can begin.

The most interesting name if former MVP Josh Donaldson. It is obvious Donaldson’s time in Toronto is over, as they have #1 prospect Vladimir Guerrero Jr. itching at his chance to debut. Donaldson has dealt with injuries and slashed just .234/.333/.423 this year, but has been hampered by injuries. If the Angels can trade for him, maybe a few months in sunny SoCal are just what the three-time All Star needs to get his mojo back.

The Halos are looking forward to 2019, and hopefully contending as well. The secret piece to that might be some heavy in-house recruiting from Billy Eppler after dealing for one of these veterans.