The February 12, 2016 edition of Los Angeles Angels news includes an update on Tyler Skaggs’ recovery from Tommy John surgery, a potential acquisition target being shopped around, and more…
The Story: Tyler Skaggs has already thrown five bullpens, is ready for Spring Training
MWAH Says: The article is actually about the “Moving Day” they held at the Angels Stadium yesterday, but loading up a truck really isn’t all that interesting. What is worth noting is that Skaggs is treating this Spring Training like he would any other. Now 17 months out from Tommy John surgery, he’s already thrown five bullpens, is up to 45-50 pitches, and expects to be full speed ahead when he reports in Tempe next Thursday. All good things. His health and performance could be key in determining whether the club trades C.J. Wilson before opening day.
The Story: Dodgers trying to trade INF/OF Alex Guerrero
MWAH Says: Labeling him an infielder and outfielder is a bit generous. The Dodgers tried him at three different positions last year, but the only one he wasn’t terrible at defensively was third base. He also was abysmal with the bat after an electric April, posting a 1.505 OPS in the season’s opening month (28 PA) then a .585 OPS the rest of the way (202 PA). He’s way overpaid the next two seasons ($15M), but any trade will make him a free agent after 2016 and you know the Dodgers won’t balk at eating some of his contract. Not a great fit for the Halos, obviously, but worth at least checking on the asking price.
The Story: Baseball America releases latter half (#’s 51-100) of Top 100 prospects list
MWAH Says: Not sure why I keep listing these when we all know there won’t be any Angels on them. I guess I just enjoy commiserating about how hopeless the farm system currently is.
The Story: Jimmy Boyle’s first WBC pitch could end his high-school career
MWAH Says: All rules dictating “amateur eligibility” are absurd, whether mandated by the WIAA, the NCAA, or anyone else. Having an opportunity to potentially take part an exhibition game against some the best players in the world shouldn’t disqualify a kid from playing baseball with his friends at school. Stop being ridiculous.
The Story: Independent League to affiliated ball: Who makes the move?
MWAH Says: Over the last three seasons, the Angels have signed 16 players out of independent leagues. That’s the third most in baseball in that span. Not sure what that says about the organization’s scouting department, but it sure seems not good. The Astros and Cardinals, with their replete farm systems, have signed two independent league players combined.
The Story: I read the entire CBA and here’s what I learned
MWAH Says: Sam Miller is so dang good at this. Forever growing more and more envious of his writing chops. A great read, as always.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
