3 free agents LA Angels should 'overpay' for when lockout ends

No. 1 free agent the LA Angels should 'overpay' for when lockout ends: Kenley Jansen

Kenley Jansen is an elite closer, and the LA Angels already have one. They also already have an elite set-up man in Aaron Loup. I get why it appears that there's no space for Jansen on this team.

But Jansen is one of the best relievers in this league and has been ever since he set foot in this league in 2010. His stuff is untouchable, and he can throw the sixth and seventh innings. Anyone doubting that a 2.37 ERA pitcher who allows 5.7 hits per nine innings, and strikes out 13 batters per nine innings could pitch in a middle reliever role is kidding themselves.

Especially when considering Jansen has pitched in different roles throughout his career. I'll also add that we could move Loup into a sixth/seventh inning role, and have Jansen go to the set-up role. The New York Yankees have had success in the past by having three elite back-end relievers before, so the Angels shouldn't be scared to overpay for another reliever.

The bullpen was terrible last year. Worrying about spending 'too much' on it is a waste of time. All three of these players, however, would be great and significant upgrades for this team.

Free agency needs to be taken seriously when baseball comes back.