The Los Angeles Angels made a series of notable roster moves this week, setting the stage for a potentially impactful offseason. With the Non-Tender deadline passing on November 22, the Angels made the decision to non-tender left-handed pitcher Patrick Sandoval and outfielder Bryce Teodosio. This move came just days after the Angels DFA’d (designated for assignment) Jordyn Adams and Eric Wagaman, creating much needed space on their roster and payroll.
These decisions are likely part of a broader strategy by general manager Perry Minasian to reshape the team for the future, as the Angels continue their pursuit of a competitive lineup that can contend in the American League West. As of now, the Angels’ projected payroll for 2025 stands at approximately $170 million, according to Spotrac, after saving just under $6 million by non-tendering Sandoval. This move not only gives the Angels more financial flexibility but also opens the door for potential additions that could bolster their roster.
The Non-Tendered Players: Patrick Sandoval and Bryce Teodosio
Patrick Sandoval had been a promising member of the Angels' pitching staff but struggled with consistency throughout 2024 before requiring Tommy John surgery ending his season, ultimately leading to his non-tendering. By parting ways with Sandoval, the Angels are likely freeing up money to either make a more significant play for a starting pitcher in free agency or explore other trade options. The move also signals that the team is focusing on building depth in other areas, possibly looking for higher upside arms who could contribute more immediately.
On the other hand, Bryce Teodosio showed flashes of his tools in the minors but failed to make a sustained impact at the major league level. Teodosio’s speed and athleticism were his standout traits, but his bat lagged behind, especially against big-league pitching.
Intriguing Names Non-tendered on Friday
Brendan Rodgers (2B, Colorado Rockies)
Rodgers is an intriguing option for the Angels, especially with their ongoing need to improve the infield. After a solid start to his major league career, Rodgers has been sidelined by injuries, but when healthy, he is a reliable bat with decent power and a strong defensive presence. With the Angels’ infield depth being a priority this offseason, Rodgers could be a potential buy-low candidate who, when healthy, could add both offense and stability to the Angels’ middle infield.
Cal Quantrill (SP, Colorado Rockies)
Quantrill is a proven starting pitcher who, although not an ace, offers steady production from the rotation. He struggled for the Rockies but did show promise in Cleveland. With the Angels’ rotation struggling to stay healthy and consistent, Quantrill could be a solid back end-rotation addition. His ability to eat innings and provide depth could free up the Angels to make more aggressive moves with their other pitchers.
Colin Poche (RP, Tampa Bay Rays)
Poche, a left-handed reliever, is an appealing target for the Angels bullpen. The Rays have been known for their excellent bullpen management, and Poche has been a reliable contributor in that system. With the Angels’ bullpen being one of their weaker areas in recent years, adding a capable reliever like Poche could provide much-needed stability in the late innings. His potential availability could allow the Angels to add depth without committing to a high-price option.
Dylan Carlson (OF, Tampa Bay Rays)
Carlson has shown promise as an all-around outfielder but has yet to fully break out. His combination of power, speed, and defensive ability makes him an intriguing option for the Angels, particularly if they are seeking a player who can provide value on both sides of the ball. He might be worth a flyer.
Kyle Finnegan (RP, Washington Nationals)
Another bullpen option that could be a fit for the Angels is Kyle Finnegan, a hard-throwing right-handed reliever with closing experience. Finnegan has shown the ability to strike batters out and limit runs, making him an appealing candidate to add to the Angels’ relief corps. Given the Angels’ struggles to find consistent bullpen help in recent seasons, adding Finnegan could help them shore up a unit that will be crucial to any postseason run.
Jordan Romano (RP, Toronto Blue Jays)
If the Angels are looking to take advantage of bullpen volatility , Jordan Romano is a name that could be in play. The Blue Jays' former closer was a solid reliever before dealing with injuries in recent seasons, offering a blazing fastball and a devastating slider.
Payroll and Financial Flexibility
The decision to non-tender Sandoval is part of the Angels’ larger plan to reallocate their financial resources. The nearly $6 million in savings gives them more room to maneuver in free agency and the trade market, which is crucial as they look to improve a team that has had inconsistent pitching and a sometimes-overworked bullpen.
With the 2025 payroll projected at $170 million, the Angels now have more flexibility to make moves, potentially adding key players that can contribute to the team’s success. It’s clear that while the Angels are positioning themselves for short-term competitiveness, they also seem to be looking ahead to long-term sustainability, building around core players like Zach Neto, Logan O'Hoppe, Nolan Schanuel, Ben Joyce, Jose Soriano and of course the GOAT Mike Trout, as well as making savvy acquisitions to maximize their chances to improve on the dreadful 2024 season.
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