The Angels' recent moves have been a head-scratcher, to say the least. With the team struggling at 16-28 and in last place, it's clear that something needs to change. The organization has a reputation for being behind the curve, and their approach to player development and strategy has left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads.
One of the most intriguing moves was the decision to place Drew Pomeranz on the 15-day injured list due to left elbow inflammation. This is a player who has a history of arm issues, including multiple surgeries, and has not pitched in the majors since 2022. The Angels signed him to a one-year, $4MM deal for the 2026 season, hoping for a bounceback year. However, with a 7.20 ERA through 15 innings, it's clear that this gambit has not paid off. The Angels' approach to player development and strategy has been questionable, and this move is no exception.
In a corresponding move, right-hander Ryan Johnson was reinstated from the IL. Johnson, who was drafted in the summer of 2024, has had a strange career thus far. He didn't pitch in the minors that year and cracked the big league roster in 2025, despite having no professional experience. He then spent a few weeks in the bullpen before being optioned to High-A, where he finished the year pitching well as a starter. This year, he made the big league rotation out of camp but was then placed on the IL due to a virus after just one start. It's unclear what the Angels' plan is for Johnson, but it appears that he will now take Pomeranz's spot in the bullpen.
The Angels' approach to player development and strategy has been unconventional, to say the least. Alek Manoah, who began the season on the IL due to a finger issue, made a quick rehab appearance and was quickly added to the big league roster. His first appearance was a single-inning relief outing, and the next time out, he tossed five innings of long relief. Grayson Rodriguez, who began the season on the IL due to shoulder inflammation, has also made quick rehab appearances. These quick activations and rehab assignments feel like the Angels are just winging it, and considering Manoah and Rodriguez both have extensive injury histories, it doesn't seem like a prudent approach.
The Angels' struggles extend beyond the pitching staff. The team has been experimenting with Vaughn Grissom and Oswald Peraza in left field, as outfielder Josh Lowe has been struggling. Grissom and Peraza are both hitting well, but neither player has any professional outfield experience. If one or both of them can take to left field, it could provide the Angels' manager, Kurt Suzuki, with some extra flexibility in setting his ideal lineup. However, with the team's current record, it's unclear if these moves will be enough to turn things around.
In conclusion, the Angels' recent moves have been a head-scratcher, and their approach to player development and strategy has left much to be desired. With the team struggling and in last place, it's clear that something needs to change. The Angels' reputation for being behind the curve has been well-earned, and it remains to be seen if they can turn things around and make a push for the playoffs.
