The Los Angeles Angels are including a seasoned arm to their pitching depth simply forward of Opening Day. “The Angels and RHP Carl Edwards Jr. have agreed to a minor league deal.” by way of Aram Leighton on X, previously Twitter. The signing offers the Halos a probably useful bullpen piece with years of MLB expertise, even when Edwards is coming off a turbulent season.
Edwards, 33, appeared in only one main league recreation final season with the Padres. That outing was forgettable — he allowed two walks and a success with out recording an out earlier than being lifted. After that, San Diego designated him for project, and Edwards selected to check free company as an alternative of accepting an outright project.
Regardless of his struggles on the big-league degree in 2024, Edwards discovered some success within the minors. Between Triple-A Iowa (Cubs) and El Paso (Padres), he posted a stable 3.30 ERA. Nonetheless, his command was a problem; he walked over 14% of batters confronted — an space that has plagued him all through his profession.
The Angels get much-needed bullpen depth forward of Opening Day
As soon as a rising star within the Cubs’ bullpen, Edwards debuted in 2015 and performed a key function in Chicago’s 2016 World Collection championship. Identified for his full of life fastball and elite strikeout potential, he posted a 3.54 ERA throughout components of 10 MLB seasons, with a 28.1% strikeout price and 12.7% stroll price. His journey has included stops with the Cubs, Padres, Mariners, Braves, Blue Jays, and Nationals.
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Most not too long ago, Edwards spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons with Washington. He was a gentle contributor there, recording a 3.07 ERA in 93 2/3 innings, although once more paired with less-than-ideal peripherals. His 2023 season ended early attributable to a stress fracture in his proper shoulder, which restricted his offseason alternatives. He signed a minor league cope with the Cubs this winter, however after failing to crack their Opening Day roster, he opted out in June and joined the Padres’ Triple-A group.
At this level in his profession, Edwards could not return to the dominance he displayed earlier in his tenure with the Cubs, however his expertise and swing-and-miss stuff nonetheless carry enchantment. The Angels’ bullpen has been one in every of their greatest query marks coming into the season, and this low-risk transfer offers them a possible multi-inning reliever with high-leverage expertise.
Given his minor league standing, Edwards will seemingly report back to Triple-A Salt Lake to start the 12 months. Nonetheless, if he can refine his command and keep wholesome, the Angels may have a serviceable possibility able to step in throughout the lengthy grind of the season.
With Opening Day proper across the nook, the Angels are clearly not executed in search of potential contributors. Carl Edwards Jr. could also be a sneaky addition now, however he’s proven up to now that he’s able to large moments — and the Angels are hoping he’s received a number of extra left within the tank.