MLB Free Agency 2017: 5 potential teams for Rich Hill

Los Angeles Angels

Speaking of have-nots in the AL West, let’s turn our attention to the Fighting Mike Trouts. The Angels have very little going for them outside of the game’s best player, but payroll relief is coming this winter as C.J. Wilson and Jered Weaver come off the books. Owner Arte Moreno must put that money back to work.

The Angels have one of the weakest farm systems in the league, and their lack of organizational depth was on full display this year as injuries decimated the rotation. Weaver was the only starter to make more than 30 starts, and the staff posted a 4.60 ERA on the season. The biggest blow for the Halos was losing Garrett Richards after only six starts. Richards looked exceptional before an elbow injury ended his season. He elected to rehab the injury rather than undergo Tommy John surgery, and may be ready for Spring Training.

Assuming Richards is healthy and ready for Opening Day, he’ll be the ace for the Angels. From there, Matt Shoemaker and Ricky Nolasco are your two and three. Shoemaker ended the year on the 60-day disabled list, and Nolasco is … well … he’s Ricky Nolasco. The Angels have to retool their starting rotation and make their best attempt to win before Trout’s contract runs out. If they’re unwilling to do so, it’s time to consider floating Trout’s name on the trade block. He deserves better.