Angels: Four players they could trade for in 2020

1) SP Robbie Ray

Arizona Diamondback starter Robbie Ray avoided arbitration this season by signing a one-year, $9.43 million contract in what will be his final season before becoming a free agent.

The 28-year-old was 12-8 for Arizona last season, his park adjusted pitching statistics (xFIP) showing a better season than his 4.34 ERA suggests. Ray allowed 30 home runs in 2019, third most in the National League. But if he can keep the ball in the ballpark, he could be a very effective starter. His career 11.13 K/9 highlights his tantalizing stuff.

Some believe Ray’s stuff would translate best as a reliever. As the 2020 season offers the potential for a crazy schedule of double-headers, few days off, and a shortened Spring Training, teams will need to be creative in how they deploy their pitchers. Ray offers a versatile arm the Angels could use in a variety of ways.

While the Diamondbacks expect to compete in 2020, they are pretty much starting the season playing for a wild card berth with the Dodgers in their division. With no progress made on a contract extension, after an offseason of trade rumors, it seems possible Arizona eventually parts with Ray, whether they are competitive or not.