LA Angels: 5 Trade Targets After Missing Out on Top FA Starters

Well, our worst fears have come to fruition as the LA Angels have missed out on all of the top free agent starters.

While Julio Teheran brings solid durability and production to the LA Angels, he can’t be the team’s main pitching acquisition if they’re serious about contending next season. Now, Billy Eppler and Co. must pivot to the trade market, and these five names are the most prominent candidates to be traded.

5.) Chris Archer

After an awful season in Pittsburgh following a trade from the Rays, Chris Archer seems lost on the mound. While a change of scenery won’t suddenly make him the stud we saw at times in Tampa, it could be a spark to a rebound season from Archer.

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4.) Mike Clevinger

Just recently popping up in trade rumors a few days ago, Mike Clevinger is arguably the best pitcher even remotely available. After trading him away for 21.1 innings of Vinnie Pestano in 2014, the Angels could correct their mistake and send some high-profile prospects to Cleveland.

3.) Robbie Ray

The Madison Bumgarner signing in Arizona could be an indicator that the Diamondbacks are willing to move on from Robbie Ray this winter. Bumgarner and a solid group of young starters will keep things interesting in the NL Wild Card, and the Diamondbacks could use Ray to trade to fill a position of need.

2.) Matthew Boyd

This one doesn’t seem likely due to the high asking price, but Matthew Boyd seems to be one of the more available arms. He has three seasons of team control left, and would likely slot in as the Angels’ #3 starter for years to come.

1.) David Price

Ah yes, it all comes down to David Price. If I had to bet on one player the Angels would be acquiring, it’d be Price. His salary makes him very available, and with the Angels missing out on every big free agent starter, they have the need. He isn’t the same Price that pitched for Joe Maddon in Tampa Bay, but maybe a reunion with his old skipper and a move to a pitcher’s ballpark in Anaheim could lead to a rebound season for the former Cy Young.