The MLB offseason is packed with bold predictions, and one of the boldest so far comes from MLB Network host Greg Amsinger. He made six predictions for where top free agents might sign, including a claim that the Angels will land four-time All-Star.
This speculation seems more like clickbait, as there’s no evidence that Him and the Angels have even had discussions, let alone that he’s considering them. ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan project Burnes’ next contract to exceed $200 million.
Does that seem like a deal Angels owner Arte Moreno would greenlight? Historically, Moreno has avoided offering pitchers such high-value contracts, and with an average annual value of around $30 million, signing Burnes would push the team to the luxury tax threshold—a line Moreno has been unwilling to cross again.
While the Angels clearly need a front-line starter like Burnes, it’s doubtful they’re willing to make the financial commitment.
There is no truth to the Amsinger prediction that the Angels will land Corbin Burnes
The only teams reported to have engaged in discussions with Corbin Burnes so far are the Los Angeles Dodgers and Boston Red Sox. However, big-market clubs like the New York Yankees and New York Mets are expected to join the race once the Juan Soto negotiations are resolved.
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles, under new ownership, are highly motivated to retain their ace given their limited starting pitching depth. Other potential suitors for the cutter-specialist include the San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays. The competition is simply too strong for a team like the Angels, who tend to operate more conservatively.
The Angels’ best chance at acquiring Burnes would hinge on his desire to return close to home. A Bakersfield, CA native, he grew up about three hours from Anaheim.
That said, if he prioritizes proximity, the Dodgers would be the more likely destination—they just won the World Series and could easily outbid the Angels. Realistically, the Angels are expected to target mid-tier starters or lower-end top-tier options like Jack Flaherty or Yusei Kikuchi.
Even in the wildest dreams of Angels fans this offseason, signing Burnes seems far-fetched. Amsinger’s predictions might strike out entirely, but they certainly generate plenty of buzz and engagement for his platform!
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