Trevor Bauer vs. Marcus Stroman: Who is the Better Fit For the Angels?

Angels Free Agent Target: Trevor Bauer

Bauer’s agent Rachel Luba is just as outspoken as he is. Perhaps in an attempt to broaden the interest from teams, and ensure a bidding war, she put out a tweet that walked back Bauer’s previous statements;

So what exactly would a contract for Bauer look like? In a tweet response to Gary Sheffield Jr., she told him that a contract of 3 years/$85 million wasn’t good enough. It has been speculated that a one-year deal could see Bauer get a yearly salary of close to $40 million, as it would erase any long-term risk for a team. If Bauer opens up to the idea of more security and opts for a multi-year deal, SNY’s John Harper speculates based on conversations he’s had with team executives that he could wind up with a contract similar to Strasburg’s 7 year/$245 million deal.

"“Nobody’s going (to do) nine years for Bauer. He should be in the Strasburg range, but there’s a lot of uncertainty because of the Covid-environment and the revenue teams lost, so it’s hard to say for sure.”"

Trevor Bauer will turn 30 years old in January, which would make him the oldest member of the Angels rotation. Not only would Bauer bring elite performance with him, but having a pitcher in the leadership role with Bauer’s pedigree would only benefit the rest of the rotation. Although Bauer has never won a ring, he has made it to the playoffs 4 times. Leading the Indians to the World Series in 2016, where they ultimately lost to the Cubs. With the Angels looking to finally get back into the postseason, having someone with Bauer’s experience aboard will be a needed addition.
Per Sportrac, The Angels are projected to be $76 million below the competitive balance tax threshold, which means that despite the large contracts to Mike Trout, Albert Pujols, Anthony Rendon, and Justin Upton, they still have room to be in the mix for top of the line talent. Whether Bauer wants a 1-year deal or a multi-year deal, the Angels should be able to make it work.
Bauer seems like a good fit for the Angels. He is looking for a competitive team and the Angels are expecting to compete. When thinking of financials, Bauer will definitely make more in free agency than Stroman. Would a cheaper rotation option allow the Angels more freedom to sign more players that would improve their team? Let’s take a look at the case for Stroman.