Yesterday, Billy Eppler joined MLB Tonight to discuss the rest of the Angels’ offseason plans.
When asked what the Angels’ direction was, Eppler responded that they “[intend] to contend” this year.
We’re a club that, with some health, we improved our run scoring last year, we addressed it a little bit more with [Cameron Maybin]...still some work to do if we can land something at second base, bring in a left handed bat would be nice...if we can have some health in our rotation then I think we’ll have a good chance.
Land something? It seems as if Eppler is keen on acquiring a second baseman through trade, especially since he knows that Chase Utley is a fallback option, at the very least.
The Angels will to be looking for another fourth outfielder as well, as options like Ben Revere or Coco Crisp would bring an intriguing mix of contact, speed, and veteran presence to the roster - as well as someone who can fill in should Maybin become injured.
The addition of Cameron Maybin improved not only deepened the Angels lineup, but it also gives the team a smarter baserunner they can plug into the top of the order. Now they will try to acquire a 2b that can do the same.
As Eppler says, health will be crucial to the rotation next season, as players like Garrett Richards (UCL tear), Tyler Skaggs (Tommy John surgery), and Matt Shoemaker (skull fracture) are set to return from various injuries. It would be against the odds not out of the question to think the Angels could compete for a playoff spot if their rotation does not suffer major injuries as they did this year.
In other news, the latest Angels buzz has them connected to Bud Norris and Coco Crisp.
As for now, expect the Angels to trade for or sign a second baseman (or both) soon and draft someone in the Rule 5 Draft tomorrow.
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