Angels Rumors: Insider Links Halos to 10-Year Veteran Starting Pitcher in Free Agency

Could he make sense for the Halos?

The Los Angeles Angels are entering an offseason that could see them head into a transition phase for the organization. Depending on what happens with two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, the team could look to enter into a rebuild.

But if they choose to continue trying to win games, they will need to build out their starting rotation. It plagued them last season, and they have a need for at least two starters this winter.

MLB insider Jim Bowden of The Athletic has linked the Angels with a long-time veteran starting pitcher, who could use a pick-me-up. That would be left-hander James Paxton, who came back in 2023 after basically being out for two years.

“James Paxton made five starts in 2020, one start in 2021 and no starts in 2022, but he took the mound for 19 starts this year for Boston, going 7-5 with a 4.50 ERA. He struck out 101 in 96 innings and allowed 93 hits. From 2017 through 2019, he averaged 27 starts a season with an ERA well under 4.00. In the first half of this season, Paxton went 5-1 with a 2.73 ERA, but he was hit hard in the second half (2-4, 6.98 ERA) and many GMs were surprised the Red Sox didn’t trade him at the deadline, when he had solid value. Paxton was shut down for the remainder of the season in September because of right knee inflammation.”

Per Jim Bowden of The Athletic

Injuries have been an issue for Paxton over the last few years, so it could see him landing a one-year prove-it type of contract. The Angels could use this type of deal for 2024, as they look to build out their starting rotation.

They have some solid pieces in the rotation already, but they could use another veteran presence as well. Paxton could provide them with that, and he showed that he could be an effective pitcher this past year.

While his second-half performance left much to desire, he was great in the first half of the season. If he could replicate that performance, or even produce somewhat effectively, the Angels could be in good shape.

They then could move him at the trade deadline if things were to go south, so there really isn’t any major downside to signing him on a one-year deal. Or if they wanted to go to two years with a club option, that could be smart as well.

Either way, Paxton could provide them with a guy who has been around a while, and he could help mentor some of their younger arms. The Halos have a need in the rotation, and he could come cheap, something that the Angels would need to consider.