No. 1 player to fill LA Angels last starting rotation spot: Chris Bassitt
Chris Bassitt to the LA Angels would be a dream scenario. And for what it's worth, Jim Bowden did report that the Halos have "had conversations" with the A's about trading for him.
Bassitt would potentially be the Opening Day starter for the Halos if he came over here. A competitive guy, he's been lights out these past couple of years. Posting a 73.9 win% these past two years, he also recorded a 2.90 ERA in that time span.
Bassitt was an All-Star this past year, and would have been if there was an All-Star Game in 2020. He had an even better year in 2020. Bassitt is truly electric, posting just a 1.085 WHIP since 2020.
Getting him over here would also mean that we take him from one of our division rivals, really taking advantage of the fire sale they're expected to host this offseason. Of all the realistic trade candidates for Anaheim, Bassitt is without a doubt the best one.
If the Halos can bring in Bassitt, it doesn't matter that their last guy in the rotation is a big question mark in Lorenzen. Their rotation will be set, and if Lorenzen struggles, Chris Rodriguez would likely be able to come in this summer and fill that need that we may have. This rotation could end up being pretty solid this year, we just need to either make a deal or rely on one of our young, up-and-coming guys to really step up and make a strong impact.