Blake Snell Could Reportedly Fall Into Angels' Laps, According to USA Today Insider
The Los Angeles Angels' biggest priority this offseason has been upgrading the starting pitching on the roster.
The biggest name linked with the Halos has been reigning National League Cy Young award winner Blake Snell. The former San Diego Padres left-hander was special in 2023, posting an ERA of 2.25 over 32 starts.
The Angels have reportedly made Snell their priority this offseason, and they are being aggressive in trying to land him. This approach could work out in their favor, as it seems his market may not be as booming as once thought to be.
USA Today's Bob Nightengale is reporting that some large-market clubs have their doubts about Snell. This could lead to him landing in the laps of the Angels this offseason.
"Large-market teams openly question whether he could handle the pressure and scrutiny of pitching in their city. There’s a reason why the Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees and Mets have shied away, at least for now. Snell, 31, could fall right into the Angels’ laps."
If the Angels were to land Snell, it would be a complete game-changer for the rotation. He would instantly become the best pitcher that the team has, and they could build the rest of the rotation around him.
Snell would fortify the starting rotation, and give them an ace-level starter. However, the biggest issue with this signing is that the Angels have historically been against handing out large contracts to free-agent pitchers.
But it also isn't every day that the reigning Cy Young winner is on the open market. Snell would represent a new era for the Angels after they lost Shohei Ohtani this winter.
The team needs to make some big moves if they want to break their long playoff drought. Snell is just one route that they can take, but he seems to be the most likely target as of right now.
