Blake Snell to Angels? ESPN Insider Pours More Fuel on Rumor

Can the Angels finish the race to land Snell?

The Los Angeles Angels have been looking to make a significant upgrade to their roster all offseason, especially after losing two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The front office has remained steady in its pursuit to be competitive this year, but so far, nothing has come of it.

They've been connected with some of the biggest names on the open market, including reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, Blake Snell. Snell would instantly bolster the Halos' starting rotation, giving them a true ace-level pitcher.

He has been consistent in his asking price, which is reportedly over $200 million. But no team has been willing to come close to matching his ask. However, it seems with interested teams starting to dwindle, the Angels may be becoming the favorite to land Snell.

ESPN's Buster Olney added fuel on the rumor, saying that his recent conversations have led him to believe that in the end, Snell could land with the Halos.

“[I’ve] had enough conversation with people in the last 24 hours who know Blake who believe that in the end— depending on where the money falls— the place where he might land [is] with the Angels.”

Per Buster Olney via Willard & Dibs

If this is true, it would be a major get for the Halos. Snell is the best pitcher available on the market, and arguably the best from this free-agent class.

He would transform the entire Angels rotation, giving them a legitimate threat at the top of the staff. Snell is familiar with Southern California as well, having played the last few seasons with the San Diego Padres.

“Southern California apparently appeals to him. The Angels have been in negotiations with him, and we’ll see where it goes from here. But if I’m sitting here today and had to guess, that’s the team he’s gonna sign with.”

Per Buster Olney via Willard & Dibs

While it remains to be seen if Snell will land with the Angels, their chances seem to have vastly increased. Hopefully, the front office can cross the finish line and bring the Halos a true ace for the 2024 season and beyond.