Are the Houston Astros the Most-Improved AL West Team?

facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 5
Next

4. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

Oct 2, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout (27) reacts to hitting a triple in the ninth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Los Angeles won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Even after the Andrelton Simmons trade, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim quietly overhauled a substantial portion of their team. However, while all acquisitions appear to be good depth fits, the Angels are still in need of an OF, another starter, and a middle infielder.

More from Climbing Tal's Hill

Recently-acquired Yunel Escobar is certainly an improvement over David Freese, and his versatility creates flexibility for the Angels at 2B and 3B. The Angels were briefly linked to Jason Heyward, but Yoenis Cespedes, Justin Upton, and Alex Gordon are more logical and reasonable fits. Albert Pujols and Mike Trout are desperate for additional significant bats in their lineup.

The Angels, like the Rangers, were contenders last year and have not lost any significant or irreplaceable components to free agency or trades. With a comfortable wallet and so many big names still on the market, expect the Angels to be tied to a host of big-name free agents.

Next: 3. Oakland Athletics