The Los Angeles Angels are determined to turn things around after a disastrous 2024 season. Owner Arte Moreno has instructed the front office to build a competitive roster for 2025, leading to a flurry of offseason moves. The team has already acquired slugger Jorge Soler in a salary-shedding trade, along with signing free agents Kyle Hendricks and Travis d’Arnaud. Moreno’s commitment to raising payroll — bolstered by a revamped local TV deal — suggests the Angels are prepared to invest in improving the team.
“The economics for us are pretty good… 100%, we are raising our payroll,” Moreno stated, signaling the organization’s intent to pursue contention. Here’s what the Angels have done so far and what more needs to happen for a potential turnaround in 2025.
Key Additions Provide Potential Upside
The Angels’ early moves demonstrate a calculated approach. Soler, acquired for two years at $13 million annually, is a cost-effective option compared to pricier free agents like Teoscar Hernández or Anthony Santander. Soler offers legitimate power potential and could outperform expectations. Hendricks, signed for a modest $2.5 million, represents a low-risk gamble. If he can return to form, he’ll be a steal. If not, the financial commitment is negligible.
The d’Arnaud signing is notable because the Angels already have Logan O’Hoppe, one of the league’s brightest young catchers. However, O’Hoppe’s heavy workload in 2024 revealed the need for a reliable backup, and d’Arnaud — regarded as one of the best in that role — fits the bill. A two-year, $6 million deal is reasonable, especially considering defensive specialist Austin Hedges recently signed for $4 million.
Foundations of a Young Core
Despite their poor 2024 showing, the Angels have budding talent on the roster. O’Hoppe is an elite young catcher, while shortstop Zach Neto delivered a 5.1 WAR season before undergoing shoulder surgery that could delay his 2025 debut. First baseman Nolan Schanuel impressed with a .373 on-base percentage in the second half, and José Soriano excelled in his transition from reliever to starter. These players represent building blocks for the future.
However, the Angels need more than youth to compete. Re-energizing their fanbase and fielding a respectable team is crucial. As attendance waned late in the season, the urgency to give fans a reason to return to Angel Stadium has grown. With expanded playoff formats, filling key roster holes could boost both morale and postseason chances.
Remaining Needs for a Competitive Roster
1. Strengthen the Rotation
The Angels traded Griffin Canning to acquire Soler, leaving a void in the starting rotation. While Hendricks adds depth, relying on him alone is risky. The current rotation features Tyler Anderson, José Soriano, Reid Detmers, and a mix of unproven arms. With Patrick Sandoval out for 2025 after Tommy John surgery, there’s a clear need for at least one, if not two, veteran starters.
Shopping in the mid-tier pitching market may require overpaying to outbid competitors. Options like Nick Pivetta or Luis Severino could fit the Angels’ needs, though trades might be a more efficient route. Teams such as the Phillies (Taijuan Walker), Yankees (Marcus Stroman), and Cardinals (Sonny Gray) could be open to dealing. Creative solutions are necessary to bolster both the rotation and bullpen, where the Angels also need reinforcements to support closer Ben Joyce.
2. Add a Reliable Bat
The Angels can no longer count on Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon to remain healthy for a full season. Trout has missed significant time in recent years, while Rendon hasn’t played more than 60 games in a season since 2019. Depth at key positions is essential, and another middle-of-the-order bat would strengthen the lineup.
Second base and right field are the most obvious areas to upgrade. While Luis Rengifo is versatile and productive, he could shift around to accommodate a new addition. Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak currently form a right field platoon, but neither is a proven everyday player. Options like Gleyber Torres or Cedric Mullins could add stability and offensive firepower.
The projected lineup looks like this:
- Zach Neto, SS
- Mike Trout, CF
- Nolan Schanuel, 1B
- Jorge Soler, DH
- Taylor Ward, LF
- Logan O’Hoppe, C
- Anthony Rendon, 3B
- Luis Rengifo, 2B
- Jo Adell/Mickey Moniak, RF
Adding one more quality hitter, ideally a lefty, would balance the lineup and provide insurance for injuries.
3. Keep Rolling the Dice
The Angels must continue making low-risk, high-reward moves to improve their depth. Players like Joey Gallo (still only 30) or Yoán Moncada could provide value as bounce-back candidates. Veteran relievers such as Kendall Graveman or Lou Trivino, both coming off injuries, might be willing to accept minor-league deals to prove themselves in spring training.
These types of acquisitions, while not flashy, could offer upside for a team looking to improve on the margins. The Angels need both better performances and a bit of luck to break out of their rut.
The Bottom Line
A full rebuild isn’t on the table with Trout unwilling to waive his no-trade clause and young stars already in place at premium positions. While the Angels’ early offseason moves suggest an earnest effort to contend, the team must address its pitching depth and add another bat to solidify its roster.
By being aggressive and opportunistic in the offseason, the Angels can position themselves to compete in 2025 while offering their fanbase hope for a brighter future.
