Angels’ Biggest Free Agent Signing Casts Doubt on Opening Day Availability

He has yet to appear in a Cactus League game.

The Los Angeles Angels made a splash this offseason when they signed free agent reliever Robert Stephenson to a three-year, $33 million deal.

On Wednesday, Stephenson admitted that he has been dealing with some shoulder soreness and isn't sure if he will be ready for Opening Day.

Angels RHP Robert Stephenson (shoulder) said he’s confident he’ll be pitching in games in spring training but he’s not sure it would be enough games for him to be active Opening Day.

— Jeff Fletcher (@JeffFletcherOCR) February 29, 2024

The Angels signed Stephenson to help set up All-Star closer Carlos Estévez. Last season, the Angels bullpen posted a 4.88 ERA with a combined 5.28 ERA in the sixth, seventh, and eighth innings.

“We had a hard time in the sixth, seventh, eighth inning. For us to win more games, and especially compete, we have to be better in those middle innings. Adding a Stephenson, you try to push as many guys as you can down the pecking order. Stephenson gives us another high-leverage guy where [manager Ron Washington] can use him where he wants to and more depth in the bullpen, which we felt like was needed.”

Perry Minasian via MLB.com

Stephenson played catch on Wednesday and is confident that this is nothing that will affect him long-term. However, he's less certain about getting enough Cactus League work to prepare for Opening Day.

He has yet to appear in a spring training game and the Angels open their season on March 28 in Baltimore.