ANAHEIM — With the Trade Deadline fast approaching, the Angels, despite their recent improved performance, are expected to be sellers before Tuesday’s 3 p.m. PT deadline.
The American League West is still up for grabs, and the Angels have gone 24-20 in their last 44 games. However, their overall record stands at 45-58, placing them 8 1/2 games behind the Astros (53-49) and trailing the Mariners (53-51) and Rangers (51-52). It seems prudent for the Angels to focus on future prospects and bolster their farm system.
Closer Carlos Estévez, who has been outstanding over the past two months and is due to become a free agent after the season, is the team’s most apparent trade candidate. General manager Perry Minasian faces tough decisions regarding players like Tyler Anderson, Luis Rengifo, and Taylor Ward, all of whom are under club control beyond this year.
Unexpected trades can happen, as seen in 2022 when the Angels traded outfielder Brandon Marsh to the Phillies for catcher Logan O’Hoppe, a deal that has benefited both teams. Lefty Reid Detmers, currently at Triple-A Salt Lake, might be involved in a surprising trade. Here’s a look at who is more likely to be traded:
RHP Carlos Estévez
Estévez had a rough start but has been untouchable in the past two months, with 18 consecutive scoreless appearances. During this period, he has struck out 15 batters and allowed only five baserunners in 18 innings, successfully converting all 13 save opportunities. Although he’s anticipated to be highly sought after at the Deadline, trading him would impact the clubhouse negatively since he’s a team leader. Nevertheless, with his upcoming free agency and the constant demand for reliable relievers, trading him is a logical move.
OF Kevin Pillar
Pillar, who is considering retirement after this season, will only be traded if he requests a move to a contender. Since signing with the Angels in late April following Mike Trout’s injury, the 35-year-old has performed exceptionally well, posting a .298/.346/.490 slash line with six home runs, nine doubles, seven stolen bases, and 28 RBIs in 50 games. While he is most effective as a part-time player, which limits his trade value, the Angels are willing to trade him if a contender shows interest and he agrees to the move.
RHP Luis García
García, who signed a one-year, $4.25 million contract during the offseason, has performed well as a setup reliever and will become a free agent. He has recorded a 3.80 ERA, with 40 strikeouts and 14 walks over 42 2/3 innings. Recently, García has posted a 1.23 ERA in his last 13 appearances and has been reliable this season, aside from three difficult games where he gave up 10 of his 18 earned runs. Similarly, veteran Hunter Strickland has been effective, but he might stay on to mentor the team’s younger relievers.
LHP Tyler Anderson
Anderson, a two-time All-Star, has shown remarkable consistency this year. The 34-year-old has posted a 2.91 ERA with 89 strikeouts and 48 walks over 123 2/3 innings. With a contract for next year at a reasonable $13 million, his value is high. If the Angels aim to compete next year, replacing him would be challenging. However, if they receive an attractive offer, it might be wise to trade him for prospects.
INF Luis Rengifo
Rengifo, who is under team control until the end of next season, has had a standout year, batting .308 with six home runs, 22 stolen bases, and 29 RBIs in 72 games. His versatility is highly valued by teams. However, like with Anderson, the Angels need to consider their competitive prospects for next year, as Rengifo would be difficult to replace. Meanwhile, fellow infielder Brandon Drury, who has had a tough season and is unlikely to be traded, is approaching free agency, which will further deplete their depth for the next season.
OF Taylor Ward
Ward, who won’t become a free agent until after the 2026 season, was mentioned in trade rumors earlier this month. Despite a strong start to the year, he has struggled at the plate recently, hitting just .169 with three home runs over 44 games since June 1. His defensive performance has also been lacking, particularly his throwing arm. Although the Angels might consider trading him if an impressive offer comes in, it’s less likely given that he’s under team control for another two years.
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