Dillon Peters makes his first case to be part of LA Angels staff

When the LA Angels acquired Dillon Peters from the Marlins this winter hardly anyone batted an eye. However, Peters could turn some heads if he can have a strong Spring.

So far so good for Dillon Peters in his first start for the LA Angels this Spring on Saturday, Peters pitched two flawless innings.  Only one batter reached base on an infield single, should have been an error on David Fletcher if you ask me (sorry Fletcher I call him like I see them. A good throw gets him).

Peters made quick work of the Giants in the first two innings with 19 pitches and 14 strikes. He struck out one batter and walked none and of course did not give up any runs.  Now this is just a very small sample size and many of the hitters for the Giants are not their main players, but it is still a good outing for Peters nonetheless.

Peters is battling for the fifth starter spot along with incumbent Jaime Barria, Felix Pena, and possibly top 5 Angels prospect Jose Suarez.  Nick Tropeano was thought to be in this mix, but he has had a setback in his rehab from Tommy John Surgery and probably wont be available until at least early May.

More from Halo Hangout

• New York Post columnist has LA Angels bringing veteran starter back to LA
• Dodgers make wild mistake signing failed LA Angels starter
• Why LA Angels’ Qualifying Offer to Raisel Iglesias could become historical
• Both Gold Glove finalists for LA Angels getting snubbed is a complete joke
• Marcus Stroman definitely appears to be interested in the LA Angels

Peters, who is a lefty could also be used in long relief or even as a lefty specialist in the bullpen, is just hoping to pitch well enough to make the Opening Day Roster.  Saturday’s outing will definitely help his cause in making his hope a reality.  Like I said it is very early and Peters only pitched two innings, but it is still a promising start for a pitcher with a career MLB ERA of 6.10 in 59 innings of work.

Another pitcher who looked good for the Angels in his 2019 debut was Jake Jewell, who pitched a clean third inning recording three ground outs on six pitches to retire the Giants. Jewell pitched with the Angels for a short time (three games) before suffering a gruesome leg injuring while covering the plate on a wild pitch. Jewell’s cleat caught causing his right leg to bend back under him resulting in a broken right fibula.

Jewell will also be competing for a spot on the Opening Day Roster, but he will be in the bullpen for sure if he makes the club.

Overall it was a good start for two young pitchers who are on the bubble to make the Angels roster in Peters and Jewell.  Stay Tuned as the Spring goes along to see what happens.