Angels Rumors: Top 5 free agent relievers who should be signed

Of all the available relievers, Yusmeiro Petit would be the most valuable for the Angels.

It’s worth noting, I put together this list based on WAR from the past three seasons, and players I think will be the most effective for the Angels bullpen. Of the current free agents, no player has a higher WAR3 than former Angels reliever Yusmeiro Petit (4.7).

Petit spent one season with the Halos in 2017, where he posted a 2.76 ERA and 0.953 WHIP in 59 appearances out of the bullpen. Since then, the veteran has put together three solid seasons with the division-rival Athletics.

Yusmeiro Petit Last Three Seasons (4.7 WAR):

• 2018: (74 games) 3.00 ERA 4.22 K/BB 1.011 WHIP
• 2019: (80 games) 2.71 ERA 7.1 K/BB 0.807 WHIP
• 2020: (26 games) 1.66 ERA 3.4 K/BB 1.108 WHIP

Petit will turn 37 years-old in November, so history tells us he’s likely got one or two more solid seasons left in the tank. The right-hander has been one of the most reliable relievers in the league since winning a World Series with the Giants in 2014.

Last season Petit made $5.5 million (non-prorated) with Oakland, judging by the nature of some of the contracts we’ve seen so far it’s likely he will ask for a similar ~$5 million, one-year deal.

Whether you prefer analytics or intangibles, Petit has value in both departments. He won’t blow hitters away with high 90s fastballs, but Petit’s pitches are still effective nonetheless.

It pays to have a pitching weapon who can give an occasional spot start, or come in for middle and late relief. Every successful team needs a Petit in their bullpen.