The April 19, 2016 edition of Los Angeles Angels news includes Hector Santiago throwing fastballs like it’s 2013, Mike Trout possibly in danger of losing his Best Player in Baseball crown, and more…
The Story: Hector Santiago stays in control while upping velocity
MWAH Says: It’s true! Last night he averaged 92.9 mph with his fastball, which is a higher average velocity than he managed in any of his starts last season. He’s also moved away from balancing his five pitches, instead choosing to focus on his two best offerings (fastball and changeup). I’d posit that change is more positively correlated with his improved control than anything else. I’m excited to see if he can maintain his early success against more potent offenses.
The Story: Bryce Harper is catching up to Mike Trout
MWAH Says: Harper still has a ways to go (i.e. ~19 WAR) to catch up to Trout in terms of career value, but he does seem to be narrowing the gap as it relates to the immediate present. I don’t really understand the need to label one as better than the other. Can we not just all agree they’re both awesome and really fun to watch and leave it at that?
The Story: Ortega gives Angels ‘plus, plus, plus’ arm in left field
MWAH Says: His throw to nab Eduardo Nunez at the plate on Sunday was clocked at 94.3 mph. I’d say that qualifies for a few ‘plusses’.
The Story: 20 guys who could be dealt at the trade deadline
MWAH Says: Mostly the same guys who were on the block over the winter but not dealt. CarGo, Jay Bruce, and Nick Markakis are potential answers in left field, but they’d all put the Angels over the luxury tax. Brandon Phillips is an interesting idea for the keystone, but he too is owed gobs of money. If anything’s going to happen this July, you can bet the Halos will require the other team to eat a bunch of salary. This stipulation will of course up the acquisition cost considerably, so any trade this summer is bound to be lopsided.
The Story: Phillies acquire Alfredo Marte from the Orioles
MWAH Says: Marte played in all of five games for the Halos last season. He’ll probably get a bunch more playing time as a member of the Tankin’ Phils, even if he’s starting with the Triple-A club.
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