Top 3 trade partners for LA Angels after MLB lockout

The LA Angels have been linked to some giant trade rumors this offseason.

Of course, those talks have been put to a halt due to the MLB lockout, but the lockout will (hopefully) end eventually. They are looking for pitching, and starting pitching in particular. It's no surprise, as it's what the front office had told us they were going to go after towards the end of the season.

When this lockout ends, it's clear where the halos need to focus their trade efforts. There's three teams who have what the Halos need, and have those needs potentially available for the taking.

No. 3 trade partner for LA Angels after MLB lockout: Cincinnati Reds

Former MLB GM and current MLB Analyst Jim Bowden reported that the LA Angels are "trying to trade for Luis Castillo of the Reds." Not only that, but the Reds are rumored to have placed Sonny Gray on the block as well. We need pitching, and the Reds have it.

I'm not saying we should go after Gray. I think he had a down year in 2021. Castillo, though, is a guy who is absolutely worth going after.

MLB Network insider Jon Morosi said that he can see the Angels forming a package with Brandon Marsh to go and acquire Castillo. The Angels can't be stubborn with Marsh in this case, and be stern on keeping him. I love Marsh, but a young 3.72 ERA starter with proven All-Star capabilities would be more valuable to this team.

No. 1 trade partner for LA Angels after MLB lockout: Miami Marlins

Bowden never revealed names in his report about the LA Angels being interested in Miami Marlins' pitching, but did say that "they've talked to the Marlins about their pitching." The best trade chip that the Halos could get from Miami is of course Trevor Rogers, although he may be too good to trade.

An elite prospect, he's performed exceptionally well for the Marlins in the Big Leagues so far. He was the runner-up for NL Rookie of the Year this year, and he was an All-Star. Recording a 2.64 ERA and 2.55 FIP, it's pretty easy to see why.

Perhaps the Halos could get in on Pablo Lopez, who is dominant when healthy. Starting 11 games in the 60-game 2020 season, he was durable and great. He wasn't durable in 2021, but he was still great, recording a career-best 3.07 ERA and 1.120 WHIP.

If the Halos see him as injury-prone and don't want to go after him, that's understandable. I do, however, wonder if he's been on their radar due to Bowden reporting that they've been in contact with Miami. Perhaps they go the prospect route with Max Meyer or take on a project.

All in all, it's good to see the Angels discussing trades with other teams for pitching. It all comes down to the team actually making a move this time, and being eager to fix what's been their worst issue for too long.