Angels Make Roster Changes Ahead of Yankees Series Finale

Fans gather to support the Los Angeles Angels during a pivotal matchup.

News Summary

The Los Angeles Angels have reshuffled their roster by bringing back reliever Robert Stephenson and designating shortstop Tim Anderson for assignment. As Stephenson returns from Tommy John surgery, he aims to strengthen the Angels’ struggling bullpen, while Anderson’s departure clears space for Scott Kingery, who excels in Triple-A. The team is also hopeful for the return of star player Mike Trout, who is on the mend from a knee injury. These strategic moves come as the Angels prepare to face the New York Yankees.

Los Angeles, CA – The Los Angeles Angels have made significant roster changes ahead of their series finale against the New York Yankees, appointing reliever Robert Stephenson to rejoin the team and designating shortstop Tim Anderson for assignment. These moves come as the Angels look to strengthen their squad and improve performance as the season progresses.

Reliever Robert Stephenson is making his return to the Angels after recovering from Tommy John surgery. Originally diagnosed in April of the previous year, Stephenson had been expected back around the All-Star break but has reported a smooth rehabilitation process. He is poised to make his debut in the current season, having signed a three-year, $33 million contract before 2024. In his last full season in 2023, he achieved a 3.10 ERA over 52.1 innings, showcasing a high 38.3% strikeout rate.

The Angels’ bullpen currently holds the lowest earned run average (ERA) in baseball at 6.31. Stephenson’s return is viewed as a crucial reinforcement; however, he will initially be eased back into higher-leverage situations to allow him time to settle in. Manager Ron Washington has emphasized the need for a careful approach as Stephenson adjusts back into competitive play.

In contrast, shortstop Tim Anderson has been designated for assignment following a difficult season at the plate. Anderson has struggled to find his rhythm, posting a low .205 batting average and a .499 OPS. Despite his offensive challenges, he has been recognized for his solid defensive skills, ranking in the 97th percentile for defensive metrics. This move frees up a spot on the roster, allowing the Angels to bring in Scott Kingery, who was selected from Triple-A to fill Anderson’s position. Kingery has not played in the majors since 2021 but has performed admirably in Triple-A this season, boasting a .373 batting average and a .996 OPS.

Kingery’s enthusiasm about returning to the majors stems from overcoming significant struggles in his career, and he is expected to contribute at multiple infield and outfield positions, including center field, second base, and third base.

In addition to these roster changes, the Angels received encouraging news regarding star player Mike Trout, who has been on the injured list since May 1 due to a bone bruise in his left knee. Trout participated in live batting practice against a minor league pitcher and has begun running the bases as part of his rehabilitation process. He was activated off the injured list shortly before his participation in these activities.

There are concerns surrounding Yoan Moncada, who has been sidelined due to knee soreness after leaving a recent game early. Moncada has played in 29 of the Angels’ first 57 games this season and has been relatively productive when healthy, holding a .240 batting average and achieving the highest OPS of his career at .850.

Overall, these roster adjustments reflect the Angels’ proactive approach as they navigate the challenges of the current season. The team hopes that the return of Robert Stephenson and the addition of Scott Kingery will enhance performance, especially as they prepare to face formidable opponents like the Yankees.