The December 6th, 2012 edition of daily news for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim including details and reactions for Burnett and Blanton signings, why Trout is moving to left field and much more…
The Story: Landing Sean Burnett for two years and $8 million seems like a great deal for the Angels.
The Monkey Says: One thing not mentioned is that Burnett apparently had bone spurs removed from his pitching elbow this off-season, which may explain why he didn't get overpaid like all the other top relievers on the market despite the heavy interest in Burnett. There really isn't much not to like here for the Halos.
The Monkey Says: I do think that it does foretell that the team will definitely be looking to add another starter and thus bump Garrett Richards to the bullpen or trading block. That might seem counter-intuitive to some, but I think Blanton not having a one-year deal gives the Angels a little bit more security to be able to afford to flip Richards without jeopardizing their rotation stability in 2014. Still, that doesn't make his contract more palatable as it does seem like something of an overpay.
The Story: An Angels source says that Joe Blanton is "only a piece."
The Monkey Says: This only further suggests that Blanton was brought in to replace Richards and not assume Greinke's vacant spot.
The Monkey Says: That is about as clear and concise as I have ever seen it explained and I am referring to both Scioscia's explanation and Neyer's additional comments when I say that. I know that outside of Anaheim a lot of people don't get this move, but I think it is largely based on people not being aware of just how amazing Bourjos is with the glove.
The Story: The Angels are at major risk of losing pitching prospect Ryan Chaffee in the Rule 5 draft today.
The Monkey Says: I wouldn't be at all surprised if someone took a chance on him. I wouldn't be too broken up about it either since he "just" a relief prospect, albeit one with boom or bust potential.
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