Here’s a hard truth: the Los Angeles Angels, despite boasting baseball’s most electrifying talents in recent memory, haven’t sniffed the postseason since 2014—Mike Trout’s age-22 season. And this is the part most people miss: even with Shohei Ohtani on the roster, the Angels couldn’t break the curse. Now, as the team navigates a pivotal 2026 season, questions loom larger than ever. Can they finally turn things around?
2025 Recap & Leadership Shakeup
The Angels limped to a 72-90 record in 2025, landing them dead last in the AL West. Kurt Suzuki steps in as the new manager, marking his first season at the helm. Meanwhile, General Manager Perry Minasian enters his sixth season, tasked with steering the franchise out of its decade-long slump.
Financial Heavy Lifting
The Angels’ payroll remains anchored by Mike Trout’s $35.5 million luxury tax hit—a reminder of the team’s all-in approach to stardom. Among the top returning players, shortstop Zach Neto (3.1 fWAR) leads the charge, followed by Trout (1.8 fWAR) and first baseman Nolan Schanuel (1.4 fWAR). The rotation leans on Jose Soriano (3.0 fWAR), Yusei Kikuchi (2.5 fWAR), and Reid Detmers (1.2 fWAR), while the bullpen gets a boost from Robert Stephenson and Chase Silseth—though both posted modest 0.1 fWAR in 2025.
Roster Overhaul: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
The Angels were busy this offseason, adding key pieces like outfielder Josh Lowe, starter Grayson Rodriguez, and relievers Kirby Yates and Jordan Romano. Free agent signings include Alek Manoah, Drew Pomeranz, and Brent Suter, bolstering both the rotation and bullpen. However, the team said goodbye to several veterans, including Tyler Anderson, Taylor Ward, and Kenley Jansen. Prospect-wise, keep an eye on RHP Tyler Bremner, ranked 51st in Baseball America’s top-100.
Controversial Moves & Missed Opportunities
But here’s where it gets controversial: the Angels’ 2020 decision to ink Anthony Rendon to a seven-year, $240 million deal has backfired spectacularly. Injuries have limited him to just 257 games and a subpar .717 OPS, forcing the team to buy out his final year. Is this the worst free agent signing in recent memory? Let us know in the comments.
Trout’s Twilight & The Outfield Puzzle
Mike Trout, turning 35 in August, is no longer the player he once was. His 2025 OPS dipped below .800 for the first time since 2011, and he’s now a full-time DH, sharing duties with Jorge Soler. The outfield rotation—Trout, Soler, Jo Adell, and Josh Lowe—raises questions about defensive alignment and offensive consistency. Can Trout still be a franchise cornerstone, or is it time to rebuild around younger talent?
Detmers’ Redemption Arc
Reid Detmers, the former first-round pick who threw a no-hitter in 2022, spent 2025 in the bullpen after posting a 4.90 ERA across 75 career starts. Now 26, he’s getting another shot in the rotation. Will this be his breakout year, or is he destined to remain a bullpen arm?
Projections & FanGraphs Outlook
FanGraphs projects the Angels for 72.8 wins in 2026—a marginal improvement but far from playoff contention. With a mix of aging stars, unproven prospects, and a shaky rotation, the path forward is murky.
Final Thoughts & Your Take
The Angels’ 2026 season feels like a crossroads. Can they finally build a contender around Trout’s twilight years, or is it time to tear it all down? What’s your bold prediction for the Angels this season? Do you think they’ll surprise everyone, or is another disappointing year on the horizon? Share your thoughts below!
