Angels News: World Series Team Claims Injured Halos Pitcher

The 25-year-old is heading to AZ

Your Los Angeles Angels may not be in the season currently, but two other teams include division rivals, Texas Rangers. 

The Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks are fighting tooth and nail for the World Series title, and just because they're focused on that doesn't mean the front office is done doing their work. 

According to MLB insider Robert Murray, the Diamondbacks have claimed the rights to right-handed pitcher and Halos draft pick Chris Rodriguez. 

Sources: The Arizona Diamondbacks are claiming right-hander Chris Rodriguez from the Los Angeles Angels. Rodriguez, 25, hasn’t pitched in the majors since 2021, but has a live arm and has a 3.64 ERA in 15 major-league appearances.

— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) October 30, 2023

The 25-year-old pitcher was picked up just before the start of Game Three of the World Series. Rodgrizuez also said his farewells to the Angels' organization and fan base. 

I want to say thank you to the Los Angeles Angels organization and to all Angels fans that have stuck with me throughout my career. This team has made my dreams come true and has allowed me to make life long friends which I will forever be grateful for. #jeremiah2911 #godbacks

— Chris Rodriguez (@realChrisRod) October 30, 2023

The former fourth-round draft pick has not pitched since 2021, as he's missed the last two seasons due to a shoulder injury. 

In his rookie campaign in 2021, he posted a 3.64 ERA, 3.50xERA, and a 4.29 SIERA through 15 games and two starts. 

Rodriguez was a promising young prospect with a great arm with, a high-velocity fastball and a nasty curveball. The Angels may miss his presence, but his inability to stay healthy made it easy for the Halos to let go, and his promise was intriguing for the D-Backs. 

We wish Rodriguez the best in his new journey, and hopefully, he'll be healthy enough to be back on the mound in 2024.