LA Angels: Hansel Robles Goes From Waiver Claim to Award Winner

The LA Angels had one of the worst pitching seasons in the history of baseball this year. However, someone still has to win the Nick Adenhart Award, given to the top Halo pitcher every season.

This year, that person is Hansel Robles. Midway through last season, the New York Mets waived Hansel Robles. He was having a disastrous season for them, and was blowing save after save. All of his numbers were far worse than his career average, and the Mets thought they’d seen the best of Hansel Robles.

But then, the Angels claimed him, and magic happened.

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Robles arrive in Anaheim and for the rest of the season held a 2.97 ERA after posting a 5.03 mark with the Mets. He was allowing 3.2 home runs per nine innings for the Mets, but gave up only two long balls in 36.1 innings with the Angels.

This year, Robles improved even more, and was awarded the Nick Adenhart trophy by his teammates.

At 28-years old, Robles had the best season of his career for the Angels, posting a 2.48 ERA for the year and converting 85.2% of his save opportunities. He was forced into the closer role unexpectedly after free agent signing Cody Allen didn’t work out, and flourished in the role. Assuming Keynan Middleton can return to full strength in 2020, he and Robles could form one of the best late-inning combinations in the MLB next season.

Robles ranked eighth in the league in saves with 23 this year.  Of relief pitchers to throw at least 60 innings this year, Robles ranked seventh in the American League. Meanwhile, his 1.03 WHIP ranked ninth in the AL.

Robles was undoubtedly the most consistent pitcher for the Angels this season as well. While many members of the bullpen struggled in the second half of the season due to being overworked, Robles only got stronger as the season went on.

There were not very many bright spots on the mound for the Angels this season. However, Hansel Robles was a constant reminder of what Billy Eppler is good: spotting potential on the waiver wire and turning those players into pivotal pieces on the team.