Is Billy Eppler Done Making Moves for 2018?

In this, the quietest of off seasons, there have been very few significant moves across the MLB landscape. Yet there have been several made by Billy Eppler, GM of our Angels.

Eppler struck quickly and kept Justin Upton in the fold. Then he acted masterfully to bring Japanese sensation Shohei Otani to Anaheim. The following week he added second baseman Ian Kinsler and shortstop turned third baseman Zack Cozart.

Oh, and he snagged two nice prospects due to the Braves punishment by MLB and brought back fan favorite Eric Young Jr. on a minor league deal, further bolstering the club at the minor league level.

Eppler will obviously make more depth and minor league signings up to and through Spring Training. But is he done making substantial moves for 2018?

Why He Might

As I broke down in this piece, the starting rotation is filled with guys who are either unproven across a full MLB season, coming back from injury, or both. All of the big name free agent pitchers are still on the board.

Plus, Eppler is opportunistic. He’s always looking for ways to improve the organization. He could sign a free agent to facilitate a trade or make a trade then plug the hole with a free agent.

Why He Won’t

Most estimates peg the Angels payroll at about $170 million, which is in line with previous years. Add in the one time $20 million payout to Otani’s Japanese club and Arte might be at his comfort level. And, for the first time in several years, the Angels have actual MLB caliber players at every position on the field, except perhaps DH.

What Do You Think?

Take your best guess. For purposes of the poll, let’s use 2 WAR as our baseline for significant move and 1-1.9 WAR for notable depth move as the parameters. For relief pitchers, go by name recognition and expected role as WAR is difficult to rack up.

For extra fun, name which player or players you think will be added to the team.