MLB News: Angels keeps Ohtani, get Giolito and Lopez from White Sox
In the swirling vortex of MLB business, the Los Angeles Angels could have, perhaps even should have, considered trading Shohei Ohtani. This sentiment isn’t a slight against Ohtani’s talent or his immeasurable value to the team, but rather, a pragmatic strategy considering his impending free agency.
However, the Angels made the audacious decision to not only retain Ohtani but bolster their lineup with the acquisition of two Chicago White Sox pitchers, Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo López, in exchange for two prospects. They’re all in, a really brave move that could either backfire or start a swan song for the Angels.
Lucas Giolito, the standout player of the deal, comes with an impressive pedigree. Drafted in the first round in 2012, he first plied his trade for the Nationals before moving to the White Sox in 2016 as part of the Adam Eaton trade. Giolito’s path to prominence involved revamping his entire arm action, thereby enhancing his consistency and pitch control.
Furthermore, he developed an offspeed pitch that has become his ace in the hole, while also bidding farewell to the curveball that had been his signature out pitch. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6, Giolito uses his size to his advantage, offering an enticing blend of durability and effectiveness.
He’s a middle-of-the-rotation player who may see improved performance in the Angels’ pitcher-friendly park, given his penchant for staying within the strike zone.
Reynaldo López’s Successful Transition to High-Leverage Reliever Role and His Impact on Angels’ Bullpen
Reynaldo López was a part of the Eaton deal alongside Giolito and now serves as a high-leverage reliever. At the time of the trade, López boasted a potent fastball, but his delivery and secondary pitch inconsistencies hinted at a potential shift to reliever. Since that move, he has successfully limited hitters to a .206/.268/.341 line, proving particularly effective against left-handed batters.
His performance could make him the Angels’ most reliable reliever, with Giolito providing a solid option as their second-best starter. Considering that both pitchers are contracted until 2023, this acquisition seems justified despite the cost of losing two top MLB prospects.
From the White Sox’s perspective, they secured two prospects, including Edgar Quero, who had a phenomenal 2022 season in Low A as a 19-year-old. Despite a slow start this year, largely due to the decision to bypass High A, Quero boasts a walk rate higher than his strikeout rate. Although his power at the plate needs improvement, his on-base skill could prove invaluable in the long run.
Angels’ Rejuvenated Pursuit of Success and Ohtani’s Impact on MLB Playoffs
The other player, Ky Bush, the Angels’ second-round pick from 2021, had a promising start in Double-A, though his recent performance has been hindered by injuries. With a velocity decrease and command issues, he may benefit from a focus on curveball usage against left-handed batters.
In the grand scheme of things, the Angels could have traded Ohtani for a hefty return. With their playoff chances currently uncertain, Ohtani’s trade could have brought in a plethora of young talents, thereby building a stronger team for the future.
However, the Angels have opted for a bold push toward the playoffs, a decision that sends a strong message to the players and fans. With August being a do-or-die month for the Angels, it will certainly be interesting to monitor MLB Odds.
This might be their best shot at MLB playoffs since Ohtani joined the team, and perhaps this commitment might convince him to stay. Or it may pull more fans to the ballpark in the closing months of the season. Should they manage to snag even a single playoff series, given their long playoff drought and the perception of wasted talents, the risk would be worth it. The trade benefits both teams, albeit the White Sox may gain an edge with Quero’s potential career progression.
Still, the trade’s real impact lies in the Angels’ rejuvenated pursuit of success, showing a determination that could end up paying dividends both on and off the field.