LA Angels: Trevor Bauer names 4 deciding factors in free agency update

Bauer wants to win, and he could be the missing piece which turns the Angels into a World Series contender.

The Angels finished an underwhelming season last summer with a record of 26-34 to miss the playoffs for the sixth straight season. If the team wants to sign Bauer, they need to convince him they are serious about being a World Series contender.

Bauer was a key member of Cleveland’s starting rotation in 2016, who made it to the World Series and eventually blew a 3-1 lead to the Cubs.

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"“There’s so many moments I look back on from that season and how special it was to take a group of people, get them organized around a specific goal, and make it to that goal,” Bauer said. “Obviously we didn’t end up winning, so it’s something I want to do. I want that experience again, and to be on a team that’s dedicated not just on making the postseason, but winning the whole thing.”"

Bauer went on to explain he feels his career is too short to be part of any rebuilding. You have to admire that mindset from any athlete. Especially in baseball, there aren’t many players who are willing to go somewhere based on whether or not it gives them a chance to win over a high-salary.

The Angels have arguably the league’s best overall player in Trout, and one of, if not the best third baseman in Anthony Rendon. There is roughly 88 percent of current free agents who remain unsigned. If the team can add a few more position players to this group, ideally a proven big league catcher, and two starting pitchers, they can quickly become a contender in the AL West.

Perhaps they are waiting to make smaller moves based on whether or not they can land a star player like Bauer. Regardless, Minasian and the organization need to convince free agents they are building a serious contender, and Bauer could be the missing piece.