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By Ryan Falla, AngelsWin.com Columnist Though the Angels are heading into the 2024 season with the most question marks we’ve seen in modern Angels memory there is enough sneaky value across the board to offer outside chances at success all throughout the year. From front-line starters ready to tap into their highest upside behind the philosophies of Ron Washington's coaching staff to the reserves prepared carry the team through tumultuous stretches. The Angels may not be rich in brand names this season, but what they do have is enough young talent across the roster to brute force their contention window into an early opening. One such athlete on the Angels who looks to legitimize fans hopes for a successful 2024 is reserve starter Kenny Rosenberg, who pitched himself into legitimate Major League considerations after a stretch of strong spot starts to round out 2023. His stint of late season success places him first in line for the roster spots up for grabs this spring, and while there is more competition for the final reserve spots than last year the mission remains the same for the rising star. Armed with a quality repertoire that features sneaky good off-speed offerings, Rosenberg stands ready to absorb Major League innings for a team whose recent track record makes arms such as his a golden commodity. “In my early minor league experiences I played against guys like Bo Bichette, Vladdy Jr. and Fernando Tatis, I've gotten guys like that out in the minor leagues. Just because you're playing in a bigger stadium with more people doesn't change anything for me. I’m just simplifying my game to that. If I make good pitches I'll have good results.” Rosenberg displays a visible exceptionalism with the off-speed, which is no surprise after learning he expressed an affinity for the change-up while still in his childhood years. His innate feel for the secondary generates major league whiffs at a solid pace as hitters consistently struggle to groove the ball across the entirety of the zone. Rosenberg minimized power strokes to such a degree that sluggers were mostly kept in check as they managed a below league average 30.4 hard hit percentage against his stuff. Although he was generally an off-speed featured pitcher in 2023 his underlying peripherals have shown an above-average cutter and slider waiting to be tapped into. The 38 inch drop on his cutter sits 9 inches above the league average break and similarly the movement on his slider is well above average as it cuts at 11 inches while dropping 48 inches (league average at 6in. cut, 37in. drop). Despite having a break nearly twice as big as league average his slider was his least thrown pitch in 2023 as he threw it just seven times across the total 543 pitches thrown that season. A greater emphasis on the pitch should see even more success come his way next year considering how far he went relying mostly on his fastball/change-up (FB:43.1%/CH:37.6%). Mixing more of his strong cutter into the fastball use should see his swing and miss trends continue to blossom into notable form. “The change-up has been a pitch that I've thrown since I was eight years old. There are days where I'm more confident throwing change-ups for strikes than fastballs. The way I change speeds can keep hitters honest no matter what the count is; whether I'm behind, ahead, even, counts full, or first pitch of the at-bat. I don't think they can narrow in on a particular pitch or location. Execution in those counts and being unpredictable are the two biggest things for me.” Rosenberg's mechanically sound, consistent delivery and generally above average repertoire inspires a palpable optimism that he can contribute quality big league innings with the support of Ron Washington's elite coaching staff. A team wide focus on developing quick counts on the pitching side and delivering the defense playable outs has been a centerpiece in camp this spring under Washington and should prove to be the difference maker on the Angels hopes for improved pitching in 2024. Too often did it feel that the 2023 Angels put the entirety of the onus on their pitchers as they consistently forced themselves into deep counts trying to wrangle outs at the plate. Kenny Rosenberg’s inherent skillset is a stellar match-up with the new staff’s philosophy as he habitually serves his fielders weak contact on swing and miss stuff. Attacking the zone and trusting hitters to beat themselves on his secondary offerings will be the biggest key for Rosenberg as he pitches himself into a full-time role as a quality serviceman on the big league roster. His 2024 ZiPS projections see him logging 111 IP with 7 wins and 104 Ks over 47 BBs which is fairly in line with his expected averages based on last seasons output, though a portion of those IP will be determined by the health of the Angels starting front-five. However, given the stresses of a 162 game season it is expected Rosenberg will get his fair share of big league work through the year. “I’ve really enjoyed the couple of weeks that I've been able to work with Barry [Enright] in person. We had some conversations in the off season about some things I could chase, whether it's gaining velocity or just moving down the mound better and being more consistent with the strike zone. The big emphasis has been taking care of the baseball defensively and making sure we give our fielders an opportunity to get guys out behind us.” Rosenberg projects as a loopy Joe Saunders/Jamie Moyer type with strong off-speed combos working alongside a fastball that offers best as an execution/mix-up pitch behind his cutter. Some of his best pitches, shape wise, were some of his least thrown in 2024, leaving plenty of opportunity for coaching to tap deeper into his upside this season. Rosenberg has already proven his ability to execute on the mound as he managed two wins in three starts last year with his final start of 2023 coming as a 5 IP 6 K no-decision in which he allowed just one hit. Of his two losses as a Major Leaguer only one came as a starter, and in that loss Rosenberg tossed a Quality Start across 6 innings. Having someone who can put your team in line for the W off reserve is powerful asset across a long 162 game season, especially when the value and consistency from your starting front five remains unpredictable. Despite what pundits might try to tell you there is more than enough quality of youth to inspire optimism in Ron Washington's ability to push this team towards competitive baseball. A push for the playoffs often relies on the strength of your second half heroes as much as it does your day one All-Stars, and though Rosenberg's second half heroics in 2023 went uncelebrated 2024 may shape up to be the year we see deserved fanfare for both Rosenberg and the Angels as they brute force their way into relevancy under the mysticism of Ron Washington. View the full article

TEMPE, Ariz. — In the first inning of a Cactus League game last week, Nolan Schanuel stepped to the plate after Taylor Ward had led off the inning with a double. Schanuel pulled a ground ball to second base, and Ward took third. Ward then scored on a Mike Trout sacrifice fly. A day later, Angels manager Ron Washington was beaming, optimistic that the Angels’ rookie first baseman could play a key role in generating runs. “He’s capable of doing that with consistency, and he might be able to do it with perfection,” Washington said. “Because of his bat-to-ball skill, I think that boy can pull the ball on the ground anytime he wants to.” Schanuel made a name for himself last year by reaching the majors less than two months after he was drafted out of Florida Atlantic University. He then reached base with a hit or a walk in every one of the 29 games he played, giving him a .402 on-base percentage. He drew 20 walks, while striking out 19 times. The major league average is 2.6 strikeouts per walk. Schanuel’s plate discipline was so advanced that a case could have been made for him to begin the 2024 season in the same leadoff spot where he hit in 2023. Washington, who is heading into his first season with the team, initially planned for that, but he quickly determined that dropping Schanuel into the No. 2 spot made more sense, because he could still get on base, but also use his situational hitting skills to move runners over or get them in. “I love that,” Washington said of Schanuel’s groundout. “To me, that’s a base hit, because he put us in a position to score a run with Mike Trout coming up.” Washington estimated that, over a full season, Schanuel is going to have 70 or 80 plate appearances in which the game situation for call for something like that. “His other 500 or so, he can do what the hell he wants,” Washington said. Those plate appearances will largely determine how the rest of baseball is going to measure Schanuel’s offensive performance. Over just 132 plate appearances in 2023, Schanuel hit .275 with one homer and a .732 OPS. The lingering question over Schanuel’s performance is whether he will develop the type of power expected from a corner infielder. His average exit velocity (85.4 mph) and hard hit percentage (25.6) were both toward the bottom in the majors. Neither Schanuel nor the Angels have any concerns about that now, given how little experience he has. “Power develops when you learn more about what you’re doing and you learn the element in which you’re doing it,” Washington said. “How much does he know about the American League? Very little. His power will grow. He will learn to use his power. In the meantime, I want him to learn how to play baseball.” Schanuel, 22, hit 18 homers with an .868 slugging percentage in his junior year in college. “It’s going to come,” Schanuel said of the power. “I’m a hitter. So I just go out there and just try to do the job. My job is to put runs on the board, whether it’s hitting guys in or scoring.” Schanuel, who is just halfway through his first professional spring training, is still going through a crash course in learning about hitting and playing defense as a big-leaguer. “I’ve got a lot of work to do,” he said. “I need to improve. I think every day I come here there’s something that I’m working on.” A part of that process began over the winter, when he worked out in Florida with St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, a former MVP. Angels catching coach Jerry Narron, who knows Goldschmidt from their days with the Arizona Diamondbacks, arranged for the two to get together. “It was cool to work with him,” Schanuel said. “From fielding to baserunning to hitting, he does everything right. You couldn’t miss a beat with him. Every day I was learning something new.” Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Tyler Anderson sharp as Angels beat Rangers for 5th straight win Los Angeles Angels | Albert Pujols returns to Angels camp looking for ways to give back to the game Los Angeles Angels | Angels top White Sox, powered by Moniak home run Los Angeles Angels | Angels like early results from rookie pitcher Caden Dana Los Angeles Angels | Griffin Canning has another strong start as Angels top Diamondbacks Something else new that Schanuel did this winter was an unusual training method he devised. Two days a week over six weeks, Schanuel spent the entire day standing, to the point of agonizing pain his legs and feet. He said the goal was to better prepare him for the rigors of standing on a baseball field every day. His teammates and other team officials learned what he was doing after he told The Athletic early in spring training, and he said they responded to him with “mixed reviews.” Schanuel now says that he did it more as a test of his discipline than a strengthening exercise. “It might have helped,” Schanuel said. “You never know till you try it… I didn’t do it because I thought it was going to help me. I did it because I thought it was a challenge I wanted to complete. I wanted a competition for myself.” View the full article

THE GAME: Tyler Anderson had six strikeouts over three innings and Zach Neto hit a go-ahead two-run home run as the Angels increased their winning streak to five games with a 3-2 victory over the Texas Rangers on Monday in Surprise, Ariz. PITCHING REPORT: Anderson gave up one run on a Marcus Semien home run, with results that were much improved over his first outing last week when he gave up two runs on four hits in two innings against the Colorado Rockies. Left-hander Jose Suarez pitched two scoreless innings in his first outing after a bout of arm fatigue early in spring after he participated in winter ball. Angels pitchers combined to strike out 13 batters. HITTING REPORT: Logan O’Hoppe stayed in a groove after a slow start this spring, collecting an RBI double in the first inning after hitting home runs Friday in a Cactus League game and Saturday in a “B” Game. Neto’s home run was his second of the spring after a mammoth shot to center field last week. The Angels won with just three hits. REUNION TIME: New Angels manager Ron Washington, who served as the Rangers’ manager from 2007-14, was back in his old stomping grounds and was met with a mob of local reporters. Although many of the faces have changed since he was last with the Rangers, he was looking forward to being in Surprise: “I’m always looking forward to catching up with folks in Texas. That was some of the best times in my life in Texas.” Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Albert Pujols returns to Angels camp looking for ways to give back to the game Los Angeles Angels | Angels top White Sox, powered by Moniak home run Los Angeles Angels | Angels like early results from rookie pitcher Caden Dana Los Angeles Angels | Griffin Canning has another strong start as Angels top Diamondbacks Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Jason Martin feeling ‘more calm, more confident’ UP NEXT: Angels (RHP Chase Silseth) at Dodgers (RHP Bobby Miller), Glendale, Ariz., Tuesday, 5:05 p.m., Bally Sports West, 830 AM View the full article

TEMPE, Ariz. – After more than 700 career home runs, while topping $340 million in total earnings, Albert Pujols’ ride off into the sunset seemed inevitable. Last playing with the Angels in 2021 and retiring after the 2022 season, it seemed Pujols would merely resurface at the rare Angels or St. Louis Cardinals special ceremony. Certainly he would be there to give a speech at his Hall of Fame induction. Is there really any need to prove himself within the game anymore? Yet there was Pujols at Angels camp again Monday, ready to impart his wisdom on the next generation as a guest instructor. Getting his hands dirty with the young players of the game does not feel like a duty for one of the most legendary players of the game, it is his honor. “I think at the end of the day it’s about giving back and (enjoying) the experience,” said Pujols, with an Angels cap perched atop his head again. “Some of these young guys are the future. I’ll do whatever I can to help them out to get their game better or to have success in their career.” After Tim Salmon and Mark Gubicza have already spent time as guest instructors, Pujols will be joined by another Angels legend this week in Vladimir Guerrero. Pujols’ desire to help extends beyond the Angels’ organization. He also has been named a manager in the Dominican Republic winter league, when he takes over for his favorite team as a youngster: Los Leones del Escogido. So could a run as an MLB manager be in Pujols’ future? “Yeah, I think, why not?” Pujols said. “If the opportunity is right one day, I think I’d be ready for that. But right now, I’m going to focus on what I need to do, which is here for a week and then in the D.R., getting the team ready.” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who had Pujols at his disposal for a large chunk of the 2021 season, is impressed. “AP is one of my favorites and it’s great for baseball,” Roberts said of Pujols’ decision to manage in the Dominican Republic. “For Albert, when you have somebody who is as knowledgeable and as decorated as him, who wants to give back to players when he doesn’t have to, it’s important. “… And if he chooses, I hope he gets the opportunity to manage (an MLB team).” Angels star Mike Trout is equally as impressed with his former teammate’s desire to actively remain in the game. “He loves the game and you obviously saw that when he played,” Trout said Monday. “And now, what he’s learned over the course of 20 years, something like that, he’s willing to put that back into play. He’s seen everything. I’m sure he’d be a great manager and that’s awesome.” Trout admits that his dedicated work ethic, and lead-by-example style, was partly inspired by playing alongside Pujols for so many years. “Albert wasn’t a real vocal leader, but when he needed to, he came out,” Trout said. “When you see Albert come to the ballpark every day, he had a routine and never skipped a day. He was grinding every single day. He always got his work done. I saw that, the dedication, the work and obviously the numbers showed that on the field.” Both players also know the routine of having to work through injuries later in their careers. Pujols empathizes with what Trout is going through, having played 82 games or less in three of the past four seasons. “It sucks man; injuries suck,” Pujols said. “Mentally it helped me out knowing it’s just part of the game. You need to look at how you’re going to deal (with it). Are you gonna let it affect you, or are you going to continue to train and get ready? “I’ve seen Trout training. There is nobody that trains harder than him in the locker room. But when you take that field, there’s some things you cannot control.” Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels top White Sox, powered by Moniak home run Los Angeles Angels | Angels like early results from rookie pitcher Caden Dana Los Angeles Angels | Griffin Canning has another strong start as Angels top Diamondbacks Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Jason Martin feeling ‘more calm, more confident’ Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Reid Detmers confident he will fulfill his potential After more than 3,000 career games, Pujols has seen the ultimate highs and lowest of the lows. He simply feels it would be a shame not to help others deal with those. “I wouldn’t be wearing this uniform if I didn’t think I had a lot of things to offer the game,” Pujols said. “My job is to help these guys. I won’t go out there and hit for them, but just let them know how to handle the mental part of the game or the physical part of the game. I’ve done everything.” ALSO Right-hander Sam Bachman (shoulder surgery) and left-hander Jose Quijada (elbow surgery) had throwing sessions of 75-90 feet and 120 feet, respectively. … Infielder Luis Rengifo (hamstring) has resumed baseball activity, while infielder Michael Stefanic (quad) is doing light activity. … Right-hander Robert Stephenson (shoulder soreness) had a long-toss session. View the full article

THE GAME: Mickey Moniak hit a two-run home run and six Angels pitchers gave up a combined four hits in a 3-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday at Tempe, Ariz. PITCHING REPORT: RHP Caden Dana was impressive in his first start and second spring appearance, giving up one hit over two scoreless innings with two strikeouts. The 20-year-old now has four scoreless innings this spring. RHP Carlos Estevez gave up a home run to Chicago’s Zach Remillard in the third inning. RHPs Zach Plesac and Walbert Urena each went two scoreless innings with a combined five strikeouts. Plesac earned the win and Urena got the save. HITTING REPORT: Aaron Hicks had two hits out of the leadoff spot, including a double and a run scored in the first inning. … Moniak replaced Hicks and hit his home run, giving the Angels three hits out of the top spot in the order. … Mike Trout went 0-for-3 with three strikeouts and is now 2-for-16 (.125) in seven spring games. … Anthony Rendon went 0-for-1 with a walk and is now 2-for-10 (.200) with four walks in six games. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels like early results from rookie pitcher Caden Dana Los Angeles Angels | Griffin Canning has another strong start as Angels top Diamondbacks Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Jason Martin feeling ‘more calm, more confident’ Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Reid Detmers confident he will fulfill his potential Los Angeles Angels | Willie Calhoun has homer among his 3 hits as Angels rally past Padres WEEKEND VIBES: Angels pitchers gave up one combined earned run over back-to-back victories, getting the best of the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-1 on Saturday before Sunday’s 3-1 win. “I tell you, we have been throwing the ball well all spring and they are buying into the fact of pounding the strike zone and being very efficient with their pitches,” manager Ron Washington said. UP NEXT: Angels (LHP Tyler Anderson) vs. Rangers (LHP Cody Bradford), 12:05 p.m., Bally Sports West, AM-830 View the full article

TEMPE, Ariz. – Baseball’s latest Thor clone continues to drop the hammer, raising questions about just how long it might be before he can find himself on a major league roster. With his broad shoulders and long hair flowing from under his cap, Angels right-hander Caden Dana gave up one hit over two scoreless innings against the Chicago White Sox on Sunday and had two strikeouts in his second appearance of the spring. The outing came with Dana wearing the No. 91 on the back of his jersey. If he continues to produce similar outings, a lighter weight digit could be on the way. “It’s just going out and pitching. It’s the same game whether it’s (minor league) ball or here,” Dana said. “They’re giving me the ball and trusting me with it so I’m going to go out there and give it all I’ve got.” While Dana represents the future for the Angels, he was just closing out his teenage years in early December. Barely 20, it stands to reason that the former 11th round draft pick in 2022 still needs some seasoning before his time arrives. But this is the Angels, who brought first baseman Nolan Schanuel to the major leagues last year less than three months after his final game in college at Florida Atlantic. Shortstop Zach Neto was a major leaguer less than a year after his final college game at Campbell. “I try not to think too much. Just (take it) day by day,” Dana said. “But they’re great ballplayers and they deserve to be up there.” The difference is that Dana was drafted out of Don Bosco Prep High School in New Jersey and has never pitched above the High-A level. But new Angels manager Ron Washington isn’t as much concerned with track record as he is with results. “I think what is realistic is him and where he is (in his development) when we have a need and if the organization thinks he’s the one,” Washington said. “One thing about this organization, if they have proven it, age and your experience doesn’t matter. If you’re able to get outs is what matters.” Dana’s first spring start Sunday came after a scoreless two-inning relief appearance last Tuesday when he gave up one hit with a strikeout against the Milwaukee Brewers. “Every time you step on the field you’re representing your name,” Dana said. “Honestly, in a big-stage moment like that, just trying to focus on one pitch at a time. If I get away from that then I’ll have a bad outing. Just stay locked in pitch by pitch.” RUNNING MEN A day after Chad Wallach legged out a double and scored from second base on an error, Washington was still talking about his catcher’s scamper around the bases. “If Wallach can take an extra base, anybody on this team can take an extra base, but you have to want to and he wanted to,” Washington said with a smile Sunday, both proud of Wallach’s aggressiveness and the example he set. Washington isn’t looking for wild risk taking, but rather calculated gambles that assist run production. The thinking isn’t too unlike the first-to-third Angels days under former manager Mike Scioscia. “We’re just trying to push the envelope, seeing who can, who can’t, who wants to and see who does not want to,” Washington said. And as if on cue, Angels leadoff hitter Aaron Hicks doubled in the first inning and scored on a Schanuel single, testing the arm of White Sox center fielder Rafael Ortega. ALSO LHP Jose Suarez, whose schedule has been lagging behind because of a bout with arm fatigue, is set to make his first Cactus League appearance Monday against the Texas Rangers in relief. … Albert Pujols, now a special assistant to MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, is expected in camp Monday to spend some time as a spring instructor. Pujols is also a new MLB Network analyst and will be a manager in the Dominican Republic winter league next season for Los Leones del Escogido. … LHP Tyler Anderson makes his second start of the spring Monday against the Rangers as he tries to recover from an outing Wednesday when he gave up two earned runs and four hits in two innings against the Colorado Rockies. View the full article

THE GAME: Aaron Hicks hit a home run and six pitchers combined to not allow an earned run as the Angels rallied for a 4-1 victory Saturday over the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks at Tempe, Ariz. PITCHING REPORT: Griffin Canning gave up an unearned run over three innings with three strikeouts and has not given up an earned run in two spring starts. Canning threw 35 pitches in the game and 10 more in the bullpen afterward. After Andrew Wantz gave up two hits over 2 1/3 scoreless innings, Hunter Strickland, Guillo Zuniga, Luis Garcia, and Jose Cisnero gave up one combined hit over the final 3 2/3 innings. HITTING REPORT: Hicks, expected to make the roster as a backup outfielder, hit a home run among his two hits, his first homer of the spring. Chad Wallach also had two hits with a double and a run scored. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Reid Detmers confident he will fulfill his potential Los Angeles Angels | Willie Calhoun has homer among his 3 hits as Angels rally past Padres Los Angeles Angels | Patrick Sandoval leads Angels’ pitchers in victory over Guardians Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mickey Moniak looks to build on breakthrough season Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ hitters go quietly in Cactus League loss to Rockies WALLACH’S WILD RIDE: Not exactly fleet of foot, Wallach appeared to deliver a seventh-inning single but it went for double thanks to an odd bounce. He scored from second base on a grounder to shortstop that was booted into shallow center field for an error. It gave the Angels their first lead of the game at 2-1. UP NEXT: Angels (RHP Caden Dana) vs. White Sox (RHP Erick Fedde), 12:10 p.m. Sunday, Bally Sports West, AM-830 View the full article

TEMPE, Ariz. — Being a half a world away at this time one year ago taught Jason Martin the perspective that has served him well so far in Angels camp. Signed to a minor-league contract this offseason after playing in South Korea last year, the Corona native and Orange Lutheran High alum is back in the familiar position of trying to prove himself at spring training. “Definitely going into last season, I had a lot of doubts. I kind of felt I was going into the unknown,” Martin said of his time in South Korea. “But once I got there and realized it was the same game and I was able to do my thing over in a different country, I think without even knowing it, it helped me in different ways coming back here. I feel a lot more calm on the field, a lot more confident.” At 28, the former eighth-round draft pick in 2013 by the Houston Astros still is in search of a regular chance to show what he can do at the major-league level. He has 85 games of major-league experience, seeing 58 games of action with the Texas Rangers in 2021. But 2022 was spent entirely at Triple-A Oklahoma City in the Dodgers’ organization. And while he never was called up to Los Angeles that season, he made the most of his time by tapping into his power potential. Martin hit a career-best 32 home runs at OKC with 107 RBIs in 129 games. His .938 OPS also was a career best. But when opportunities for 2023 looked like more of the same, Martin took a leap and moved to South Korea’s KBO, playing last year for the NC Dinos. Martin hit 17 home runs in South Korea and had 90 RBIs. He had 20 doubles with a .360 on-base percentage and reignited his running game with 15 stolen bases, his most for a single team in one season since he had 20 at Single-A Lancaster in 2016. There are no guarantees with the Angels, of course. Outfield spots are tight with Mike Trout, Mickey Moniak, Taylor Ward, Jo Adell and Aaron Hicks likely to land a spot. Those vying for attention to join the group at some point include Martin, Jordyn Adams, Jake Marisnick and Willie Calhoun. Martin knows the prove-yourself routine well, which means he also is aware that by fretting over where he fits in won’t help at all. The only thing he can do is to show his worth. In five games this spring, he has four hits in nine at-bats, with a home run, double and four RBIs. “It shows that he has some experience with the way he goes about his business and the way he plays,” said Angels manager Ron Washington, using the word “impressive” to describe Martin’s spring so far. At 5-foot-9 and 185 pounds, Martin certainly does not cut an imposing figure. He tried to lean into his speed as a younger player, but outfield spots require power so Martin has gone to great lengths in order to oblige. “Growing up was more kind of working with what I had body-wise, getting into profiles a lot smaller, a lot skinnier and not really knowing how to use my body the right way,” Martin said. “I’d say the past few years I really locked it in on how my swing should look, how I should feel and what is able to generate power. I think that has been showing the past couple of years.” B-MOVIE Coming off his first home run of the spring Friday, catcher Logan O’Hoppe participated in a B Game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Scottsdale, where he was able to bat every inning and hit another homer in six trips to the plate. “I thought he had some great at-bats (Friday) and I didn’t want him to stop,” Washington said. “We don’t want to continue to put him behind the plate every day, but we got an opportunity to get him as many at-bats as he wanted. “He’s young and he’s used to thumping. And when he’s not thumping, it can get into his head. The more at-bats we can get him to feel good about himself, the better off we’re going to be.” Right-hander Jose Soriano, who pitched in 38 games as a reliever last season, got the start in the B Game and allowed one hit over three innings with five strikeouts. OPEN PROCESS The Angels are on the hunt for an Opening Day starter after Shohei Ohtani held the role the past two seasons, with Washington saying he will be patient before awarding the honor. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Reid Detmers confident he will fulfill his potential Los Angeles Angels | Willie Calhoun has homer among his 3 hits as Angels rally past Padres Los Angeles Angels | Patrick Sandoval leads Angels’ pitchers in victory over Guardians Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mickey Moniak looks to build on breakthrough season Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ hitters go quietly in Cactus League loss to Rockies “I think we’ll do that when we get down the stretch,” Washington said. “Right now, we have too many moving parts. “We have an idea of what we have and know how we want to line them up, but let’s wait until we get close enough and know that everybody is where they need to be health-wise and mentally-wise and then we’ll do what we have to do with that.” The Angels open the season March 28 on the road against the Baltimore Orioles and will play their home opener April 5 against the Boston Red Sox. View the full article

PEORIA, Ariz. — Reid Detmers’ spring training debut on Friday was not unlike his 2023 season with some misplaced pitches to go along with a bit of bad luck before ending on a flourish. The left-hander faced the San Diego Padres on Friday and struggled with his command, allowing four walks. He gave up two hits, one on a bunt he fielded then had nowhere to throw since first baseman Brian Dozier also was pursuing the ball. He was nearly out of a jam in the second with two runners aboard before allowing an RBI double to deep center field by Tim Locastro. The end of his 1⅔-inning outing was something to build on, though, when he struck out Fernando Tatis Jr. on three pitches, all of them called strikes. “It wasn’t the best outing obviously; it was definitely a command issue,” Detmers said. “But first-game jitters. Just kind of wipe it out of your head and move on the next. I’m not too worried about it.” Detmers had a rocky ride last season with a 4-10 record over 28 starts and a 4.48 ERA. But he fashioned a 1.82 ERA over his last four outings of the season, all in September. He went into the offseason after a strong seven-inning outing against the eventual World Series champion Texas Rangers on Sept. 26 by giving up one run and four hits over seven innings. It left him with his first win in six starts, with two second-half wins against the Rangers. When Detmers is in stride, he has shown he has the potential to be a top pitcher. The 24-year-old is confident he is on his way to reaching that potential. “I feel like I’m the same person, that same guy,” Detmers said. “I mean, it’s one start. One start at the very beginning of spring training. … I just kind of had a lot of adrenaline and was ready to get after it there. I’ll come back next week fine.” Even as a coach with the Atlanta Braves, new Angels manager Ron Washington said he is plenty familiar with Detmers’ potential. He expects big things from his lefty. “I’ve always been impressed with him, even last year when he wasn’t doing well,” Washington said. “You can look at him and see he has potential. Sometimes it doesn’t matter how hard you work. If it’s meant that you are going to have a bad year, you’re going to have a bad year. “… You have to find out why it didn’t happen because something made it not happen and then don’t let that set in again. And I think that’s where he is.” OPPORTUNITY EARNED Add right-hander Jose Soriano to the list of potential Angels starters this season. Already listed as the starter for Saturday’s home game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, the honor is not necessarily a stop-gap measure for the reliever, nor is it merely a chance to see how he can handle an “opener” role. Washington said Soriano will get the chance to go three innings against the National League champions. If he can show he’s comfortable in the role, his innings will continue to be extended. “Because of the stuff he has and how strong he is, he’s going to get a chance to start and see where it goes,” Washington said Friday. The 24-year-old Soriano made his major league debut with the Angels on June 3 and went 1-3 with a 3.64 ERA in 38 relief outings. He had 56 strikeouts over 42 innings. In the Angels’ organization since 2016, when he was 17, Soriano has been used as a starter throughout most of his time as a minor leaguer. He made 65 starts as a member of the Angels’ organization and two starts in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ system in 2021. He has worked through two Tommy John surgeries during that time, missing the entire 2020 season. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Patrick Sandoval leads Angels’ pitchers in victory over Guardians Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mickey Moniak looks to build on breakthrough season Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ hitters go quietly in Cactus League loss to Rockies Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Tyler Anderson hopes pitching philosophy sparks turnaround Los Angeles Angels | Zach Neto doubles, triples in Angels’ victory over Brewers “We know he can throw out of the bullpen; that’s a given,” Washington said. “So right now, we’re going to assess one thing at a time.” FAITH REWARDED Catcher Logan O’Hoppe entered Friday’s start behind the plate with just one hit in eight at-bats while striking out a team-high five times. Before the game, Washington felt it was a matter of time before the results began to match the effort. “I just expect him to get his reps (and) get through spring training healthy,” Washington said. “The more at-bats he gets, that will take care of itself. We’re going to get him what he needs by the time Opening Day comes. I don’t want him putting pressure on himself with at-bats right now.” O’Hoppe then went 1 for 3 in Friday’s game, hitting his first home run of the spring to lead off the sixth inning. View the full article

THE GAME: Willie Calhoun had a home run among his three hits, Logan O’Hoppe and Miguel Sano hit back-to-back homers and the Angels rallied for a 5-3 victory over the San Diego Padres on Friday in Peoria, Ariz. PITCHING REPORT: Left-hander Reid Detmers walked four in 1⅔ innings and called his rough spring debut a case of the “jitters,” vowing to be better in his second outing next week. … Left-hander Matt Moore had two strikeouts during a scoreless inning, while hard-throwing Ben Joyce gave up two hits and two walks in an inning of work, but gave up just one run. HITTING REPORT: Calhoun showed his bat remains quick with a home run to right field in the second inning and adding two singles. … O’Hoppe’s second hit of the spring was a drive that just cleared the left-field wall in the sixth and Sano followed with a deep drive to left. … Kyren Paris had two hits. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Patrick Sandoval leads Angels’ pitchers in victory over Guardians Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mickey Moniak looks to build on breakthrough season Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ hitters go quietly in Cactus League loss to Rockies Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Tyler Anderson hopes pitching philosophy sparks turnaround Los Angeles Angels | Zach Neto doubles, triples in Angels’ victory over Brewers CIRCUS CATCH: Angels first baseman Hunter Dozier did his best to get under a foul ball down the right-field line in the fifth inning, but he was unable to make the catch, instead batting the ball in the air. Paris, the second baseman, trailed the play and also bobbled the ball before finally making the catch for the out with his bare hand. UP NEXT: Angels (RHP Jose Soriano) vs. Diamondbacks (LHP Logan Allen), Saturday, 12:10 p.m., Bally Sports West, 830 AM View the full article

THE GAME: Angels pitchers combined to allow just four hits in a 4-1 victory over the Cleveland Guardians in a Cactus League game on Thursday at Tempe Diablo Stadium. PITCHING REPORT: Left-hander Patrick Sandoval pitched two perfect innings. Sandoval struck out two. Sandoval was so efficient that he had to throw an extra 15 pitches in the bullpen to get to his scheduled pitch count. “Today was really good for my confidence with my fastball, being able to put it where I want, and getting swings and misses on it,” Sandoval said. “It was huge.” … Right-hander Chase Silseth pitched two scoreless innings. He gave up one hit and one walk. Silseth and Sandoval, who are two of the Angels’ projected five starters, were making their first appearances of the spring. … Left-hander Drew Pomeranz pitched a scoreless inning. Pomeranz, who is in camp as a non-roster invite, has not allowed a run in either of his two outings. … Right-hander Victor Mederos pitched a perfect inning, with a strikeout. HITTING REPORT: Zach Neto blasted a home run off the batters’ eye, his first homer of the spring. Neto has three hits this spring, and all are extra-base hits. … Mike Trout lined a double into left center, his first hit of the spring. He started off hitless in his first 10 at-bats, including a strikeout in the first inning. … Anthony Rendon drew a walk and singled. Rendon is 2 for 6 with three walks this spring. … Brandon Drury drove in a run with a single. … Jo Adell singled, improving to 3 for 8 this spring. … Ehire Adrianza became the first Angels player to hit two homers this spring. A non-roster invitee, Adrianza is a candidate for a bench spot. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mickey Moniak looks to build on breakthrough season Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ hitters go quietly in Cactus League loss to Rockies Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Tyler Anderson hopes pitching philosophy sparks turnaround Los Angeles Angels | Zach Neto doubles, triples in Angels’ victory over Brewers Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mike Trout just had his worst season – here’s how he plans to fix it DEFENSE REPORT: Neto, the shortstop, made a nice play charging in on a slow bouncer. UP NEXT: Angels (LHP Reid Detmers) at Padres (RHP Randy Vasquez) at Peoria Sports Complex, Friday, 12:10 p.m. PT, Bally Sports West, 830 AM View the full article

TEMPE, Ariz. — Mickey Moniak is finally beginning a season without the weight of unmet expectations. Moniak, a former No. 1 overall draft pick who never found his big-league footing until 2023, comfortably has a job as a regular in the Angels lineup. “It feels different in the sense of finally having the success I had and almost validating what I’ve been doing in the offseason,” Moniak said. Moniak, 25, had hit just .157 with a .486 OPS over 167 plate appearances in parts of three seasons with Philadelphia and the Angels going into last year, when he hit .280 with 14 homers and an .802 OPS in 323 plate appearances. “He’s a professional hitter,” Angels manager Ron Washington said. “He really is. He can handle the bat.” Washington likes Moniak as his leadoff hitter and right fielder, although he might also get some time at designated hitter or another outfield spot when either Mike Trout or Taylor Ward has the day off. The remaining questions are whether he can hit lefties and whether he can improve his strikeout-walk ratio. Moniak drew nine walks and struck out 113 times last season. “Something I do really well and something that makes me who I am is I am aggressive,” Moniak said. “If pitches are in the zone, I put them in play and hit them hard. The mindset for me is not necessarily trying to walk more. It’s more swinging at the pitches in the zone and being aggressive and if it’s not there, take it. It’s a fine line between not taking away my aggressiveness and being more patient. But that’s something we’re working on this spring.” As for hitting lefties, Moniak has a career .172 average. Last year, though, when he got his first real shot against lefties, he hit .222. “It’s just about getting an opportunity to do it,” Moniak said. “And when I get those opportunities, I have to capitalize on them and show people that I can do it.” Moniak has answered the skeptics on other parts of his game, a process that he said actually began before the 2022 season. That’s when he scrapped a lot of what he’d done with his swing in his first years in the Phillies’ system. He said he “simplified” things, returning to much of what he was doing as far back as high school. Moniak hit .378 with an OPS of 1.351 with the Phillies in spring training 2022, but he fractured his right hand when he was hit by a pitch just before opening day. He returned to play just 18 games with the Phillies before they traded him to the Angels in the Noah Syndergaard deal at the deadline. Moniak was just a week into his Angels career when he fractured a finger trying to bunt. That cost him most of the rest of the 2022 season. So for 2023, he believed he simply needed to keep doing what he’d done in 2022, but without the injuries. “I just had to stick with it,” Moniak said. “The season I had was validating that what I was doing works. But I’m definitely still hungry to get better.” SHUT DOWN The Angels are tied for the major-league lead with five opposing runners caught stealing this spring. They’ve allowed five stolen bases. “Every part of defense is a particular emphasis, and that’s a part of defense,” Washington said of stopping opponents on the bases. They caught Colorado Rockies speedster Zac Veen twice Wednesday. “He made three attempts at a stolen base and he got blown up twice,” Washington said with a broad smile. “And he can fly. That’s defense.” One time he was thrown out by Angels 18-year-old catcher Juan Flores. NOTES Right-hander Robert Stephenson (shoulder) said he “felt good” after playing catch Wednesday. He said he’s not too concerned about the injury, but still might have to start the season on the injured list simply because he’d run out of time. “At this point, getting in enough games to be ready for opening day will be a little bit of a challenge,” Stephenson said. “I feel comfortable being in games before the end of the spring. It’s just a matter of if the workload is built up enough or not.” … Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ hitters go quietly in Cactus League loss to Rockies Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Tyler Anderson hopes pitching philosophy sparks turnaround Los Angeles Angels | Zach Neto doubles, triples in Angels’ victory over Brewers Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mike Trout just had his worst season – here’s how he plans to fix it Los Angeles Angels | Angels hold on to win slugfest against Giants The Angels are stretching out right-hander Andrew Wantz to make him a starting candidate instead of a reliever. Washington said he likes Wantz because he’s consistent. Washington reiterated that the Angels like “the first five,” which are left-handers Patrick Sandoval, Reid Detmers and Tyler Anderson and right-handers Griffin Canning and Chase Silseth. Washington said an injury could open the door for another starter, and Wantz now joins the list of starter candidates, along with right-handers Zach Plesac and Davis Daniel and left-handers José Suarez and Kenny Rosenberg. … Suarez has not pitched yet in a spring training game because Washington said “his arm was a little dead” after winter ball, but Washington said he still has time to get enough innings to be ready for opening day. Suarez is out of options. View the full article

THE GAME: The Angels lost to the Colorado Rockies, 3-1, in a Cactus League game on Wednesday at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, Ariz. PITCHING REPORT: Left-hander Tyler Anderson gave up two runs in two innings. He worked a perfect first and then gave up four hits in the second. One of the hits was nearly caught by left fielder Taylor Ward. “Regardless of the outcome, I felt like I was executing better as it went on,” Anderson said. … Three Angels relievers expected to be on the Opening Day roster made their first appearances of the spring. Closer Carlos Estévez gave up a run in his innings, but right-handers Adam Cimber and Luis Garcia did not allow any runs. Garcia needed just five pitches to get through his inning. Cimber’s outing included a scare when he had to fling himself backward to avoid a 105 mph line drive. Shortstop Zach Neto fielded it on a hop to get the out. … Two right-handers competing for jobs – Hunter Strickland and Jimmy Herget – also worked scoreless innings. HITTING REPORT: Nolan Schanuel singled twice, an infield hit and a line drive into left-center. Both had exit velocities of at least 100 mph. Schanuel is 5 for 10 this spring, with at least one hit in each of the four games he’s played. … Anthony Rendon singled, walked and was hit by a pitch. Rendon drew a walk after falling behind 0-and-2. … Jason Martin singled, improving to 4 for 8 this spring. An Orange Lutheran High product, Martin is in a position to provide outfield depth. … Mike Trout was hitless in three at-bats, dropping to 0 for 9 to start the spring. … Ward drove in a run with a two-out single in the second. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Tyler Anderson hopes pitching philosophy sparks turnaround Los Angeles Angels | Zach Neto doubles, triples in Angels’ victory over Brewers Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mike Trout just had his worst season – here’s how he plans to fix it Los Angeles Angels | Angels hold on to win slugfest against Giants Los Angeles Angels | Ron Washington looks to Griffin Canning as a leader among Angels’ pitchers DEFENSE REPORT: The Angels had the infield in and a ball ricocheted off the glove of Neto and went straight to Rendon, the third baseman. The Angels got the out with a rundown, but a run scored on the play. … Rendon made a nice backhand play on a sharp grounder. … The Angels picked off two runners, one with Cimber on the mound and one with Herget pitching. … Catcher Juan Flores threw out a runner trying to steal second. Flores, who just turned 18 earlier this month, has impressed the staff with his raw tools. UP NEXT: Angels (LHP Patrick Sandoval) vs. Guardians (RHP Gavin Williams) at Tempe Diablo Stadium, Thursday, 12:10 p.m. PT, Bally Sports West, 830 AM View the full article

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Tyler Anderson wants to return to his philosophy of pitching this year. “My whole life has been trying to make good pitches, not make my pitches good,” Anderson said. The catchy phrase refers to the difference between thinking about how a pitch works against a certain hitter in a certain game situation, and simply measuring the velocity or the break or the spin of the baseball. As Anderson looks to rebound from the worst year of his career, he said one of the points of emphasis is not to chase Trackman numbers. “Less chasing stuff, which I felt was the M.O. last year, as opposed to pitching, which is what I like,” Anderson said. Anderson, who was set to make his first start of the spring Tuesday afternoon, said so far he’s enjoying the new organizational approach. The Angels have a new pitching coach (Barry Enright) and a new bullpen coach (Steve Karsay). New run prevention coordinator Alex Cultice helps develop the overall pitch-calling strategy. Whether all of that helps turn around Anderson remains to be seen. Certainly, the 34-year-old left-hander had more going wrong last season than the guidance he was getting from the organization. “Every year in the offseason, I’m kind of battling stuff and then right around the time spring came I’d start feeling good,” Anderson said. “Last year I never really got there.” Anderson said it wasn’t fatigue or pain. “I knew what I needed to do and I felt like I couldn’t get my body in position to do it,” he said. “Like my hips were too tight or there was some kind of block where I’m trying to make this fix over and over. It’s like trying to pound a square peg into a round hole. It doesn’t fit. The whole year I was fighting myself trying to make adjustments that physically I wasn’t really capable of making.” Anderson said he felt his velocity dropping and worked hard to improve it, but it was futile. “Coming into spring last year, I felt like I just couldn’t get any velo going,” Anderson said. “That’s probably because if you’re in the right positions, your body kind of naturally creates those levers to throw harder. If you’re trying to force it, you kind of lose command. Chasing a mile an hour for me, going from 89 to 90 or 90 to 91 or 92 is probably not that beneficial. “If I’m gonna go from 90 to 97, it’s probably OK to chase that and lose command, but to try as hard as I can to throw one mile an hour harder with literally 110% of effort every single time? I’m sacrificing command. For me, that’s not where it’s at.” The result was a 5.43 ERA in 25 starts, covering 141 innings. It was not what the Angels expected when they signed Anderson to a three-year, $39 million deal in November 2022. Anderson was coming off an All-Star season in which he’d posted a 2.57 ERA with the Dodgers in 2022. The Angels weren’t expecting that either, or they’d have been paying him $30 million a year instead of $13 million. Anderson’s career ERA heading into 2023 was 4.16, and if Anderson would have just done that last year, he’d have delivered what the Angels needed. Going into 2024, Anderson said if he can get to something in between 2022 and 2023, those would be “like my normal numbers.” Manager Ron Washington, who wasn’t around for Anderson’s 2023 nightmare, said he’s willing to write it off as an outlier season. He said he “loves” Anderson’s attitude. “He had a chance to go through that bad spell,” Washington said. “Now he has a chance to go through a good spell. You play this game long enough, you’re going to have bad spells. No one plays this game consistently all the time. You’re gonna have those periods and then you find out what you’re made of. We know what he’s made of. “He’s a gamer, man. Maybe some things he wasn’t doing that he should have done. He had a chance to deal with that over the winter. Come back in here and make sure that he goes about his business to make certain that he gets back to where he is.” NOTES Right-hander Robert Stephenson (sore shoulder) was cleared to begin some light throwing. Stephenson has not yet pitched in a Cactus League game. … Infielders Michael Stefanic (strained quad) and Luis Rengifo (hamstring) were both cleared to resume baseball workouts. … Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Zach Neto doubles, triples in Angels’ victory over Brewers Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mike Trout just had his worst season – here’s how he plans to fix it Los Angeles Angels | Angels hold on to win slugfest against Giants Los Angeles Angels | Ron Washington looks to Griffin Canning as a leader among Angels’ pitchers Los Angeles Angels | Angels shut out by Royals, fall to Reds in split-squad games First baseman Evan White (hip soreness) also returned to action after being slowed for several days. White has dealt with hip issues for years, and he was finally feeling 100% as he began his first spring training with the Angels. He felt a tweak last week and took some time to let it subside. “It was a little tight last week and I think the biggest thing now is we’ve waited to long to get back to playing that we’re doing the right thing by taking it slow and putting myself in the best position to not just be healthy, but to stay on the field for the whole season,” White said. … Taylor Ward led off the first inning with a double Tuesday, but Washington wanted him to go for the triple, which is another indication of how he’s pushing the Angels to not be conservative on the bases. The rule of thumb is never to make the first out at third base, but Washington believed that Ward would have been comfortably safe. “You don’t force third, but if the play predicts you can get to third, don’t think about ‘I’m the leadoff guy and there’s nobody out so I’m going to stop at second,’” Washington said. View the full article

THE GAME: Zach Neto drove in three runs with a pair of extra-base hits in the Angels’ 6-4 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday afternoon at Tempe Diablo Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. PITCHING REPORT: Right-hander Zach Plesac gave up two runs in two innings. Plesac gave up three hits, including a double. He issued one walk, which included a ball because of a pitch clock violation. Plesac is throwing a new slider that is more of a sweeper. “It’s supposed to induce more swing and miss, and that’s what I saw today,” he said. “So I’m happy with how that played out.” … Left-hander Matt Moore worked a perfect inning. … Right-hander Guillo Zuñiga struck out all three hitters he faced. Zuñiga has five strikeouts in two scoreless innings this spring. “The stuff he showed out there today, he just overmatched them,” Manager Ron Washington said. “I certainly hope he keeps that up because that was big time.” … Right-hander Caden Dana, the Angels’ top pitching prospect, pitched two scoreless innings in his spring debut. He gave up a leadoff single, but then got two grounders and a pop-up, followed by a perfect inning. “Tremendous mound presence,” Washington said. “He was out there like he knew what he was doing and what he wanted to do. I didn’t see any anxiety at all.” HITTING REPORT: Neto barely missed a homer, with his drive hitting off the top of the fence in right-center field. It went for a two-run double instead. In his next at-bat, he tripled over the head of the left fielder, driving in another run. Neto then tried to bunt for a hit, but he was thrown out. … Taylor Ward led off the game with a double into the gap in right center. … Mike Trout hit a line drive into right center, but Sal Frelick made a spectacular diving catch, and Trout had to settle for a sacrifice fly. Trout also struck out and grounded out. He is hitless in six at-bats this spring. … Nolan Schanuel singled, giving him a hit in all three games he’s played this spring. … Miguel Sanó started for the third time in three days since arriving in camp. He went hitless in three at-bats. He’s now 0 for 6 with four strikeouts this spring. … Livan Soto went 3 for 3. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Mike Trout just had his worst season – here’s how he plans to fix it Los Angeles Angels | Angels hold on to win slugfest against Giants Los Angeles Angels | Ron Washington looks to Griffin Canning as a leader among Angels’ pitchers Los Angeles Angels | Angels shut out by Royals, fall to Reds in split-squad games Los Angeles Angels | Miguel Sanó arrives in Angels camp after losing 58 pounds DEFENSE REPORT: Catcher Chad Wallach couldn’t catch a wind-blown foul pop-up on the first pitch of the game. It dropped about 15 feet from him. The Angels got the out a few pitches later. … Trout tried to make an over-the-shoulder catch on a ball at the center field fence, but he couldn’t come up with it. It went for a double. UP NEXT: Angels (LHP Tyler Anderson) at Rockies (LHP Austin Gomber) at Salt River Fields, Scottsdale, Wednesday, 12:10 p.m. PT, Bally Sports West, 830 AM View the full article

TEMPE, Ariz. — Lost amid the narratives of Mike Trout’s injuries or whether he should ask to be traded is the underlying question about what he actually did while he was on the field last season. The Angels’ superstar, a three-time MVP, posted numbers that were, across the board, the worst of his career. Trout finished with a .263 average and an .858 OPS, which were well below his previous career averages of .303 and 1.002. Trout hit 18 homers in 82 games, with his season cut short by a fractured bone in his hand. “I’ve been fighting through it for the last couple years,” said Trout, who had a .999 OPS in 2022. “Just get that rhythm down, going through a stretch where I feel feel comfortable. Looking back, there wasn’t a stretch in the last year or the year before where I felt like myself for a while. Just getting back to that is key.” Trout had a .669 OPS over a 41-game span from late April to mid June, which was the worst 41-game span of his career, excluding the 2011 season when he first broke into the majors as a teenager. Trout finally started to perform in June. He had a 1.047 OPS over his last 16 games and 68 plate appearances before he fractured his hamate bone July 3. The obvious question is whether Trout’s down year in 2023 was an isolated slump, or if it was a sign of the decline that normally comes as a player gets older. Trout, who turned 32 in August, scoffed at that idea. “No, no, no,” he said. “It’s not that. I know what I’m doing wrong. I created a bad habit in the last year or two that I’m trying to get out of.” That habit, Trout said, is “sliding,” as opposed to keeping a firm base. That caused his hips to drop and he “was under everything.” Trout’s contact rate was 76% in 2023. He had been at least 80% in every season through 2020. He was at 73% in his injury-shortened 2021 and in 2022. His troubles were especially acute against high velocity. Last year, Trout hit .197 on pitches at 95 mph or harder. The major-league average was .240. Trout had previously never hit worse than .236 on those pitches, and as recently as 2022 he hit .290. Although it’s easy to suspect that Trout’s bat speed has slowed, the numbers don’t support that. Statcast began tracking bat speed in 2023, and Trout’s average of 73.8 mph was the second fastest in the majors, behind Giancarlo Stanton (77.0). The problem wasn’t that the bat was slow; it was that he was missing too many pitches, which he said is because of the mechanical issue. There was also some element of bad luck for Trout last year. His expected batting average, based on the quality of contact, was .275. The expected slugging percentage was .523, compared with his actual slugging percentage of .490. Trout’s solution for 2024 starts with getting more plate appearances in spring training. He said he wants 70 to 80 plate appearances this spring, which would include at-bats in live batting practice or minor-league games. Last year, he had just 26 plate appearances in spring training, plus some on back fields. “You can only do so much in the cage,” Trout said. “You have to get those everyday reps, in the game … If I can get to 100 by mid-April, that’s when you can really get into a rhythm. You have to build into that, but getting those at-bats in spring training will definitely help.” Trout remains confident he can again be the player who won those three MVPs, including one in 2019. “For sure,” he said. “Every year I come in like that. I want to be back to that. When you’re grinding through things at the plate, it’s tough mentally and physically. Mentally, you’re trying to get to that point. When you don’t, and you’re fighting through things, it puts a toll on you. And physically, you’re in there hitting every day, and things flare up on you. Getting back to my normal self is the goal.” IT’S GO TIME The Angels stole 10 bases through their first four spring training games, which was second only to the Colorado Rockies (11) in the majors. The Angels were caught stealing twice. It’s all part of Angels manager Ron Washington’s preference to be aggressive on the bases. “I don’t think these teams in the American League will let us run crazy, but if they go to sleep, we’re going to run,” Washington said. “They’re going to have to be on their P’s and Q’s because I want to be aggressive. That’s the way we’re going to play.” Washington said they’ll also emphasize taking extra bases on hits. When the Angels have a runner at third and less than two outs, Washington said he will regularly send the runner on contact, as long as the Angels are ahead or tied. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels hold on to win slugfest against Giants Los Angeles Angels | Ron Washington looks to Griffin Canning as a leader among Angels’ pitchers Los Angeles Angels | Angels shut out by Royals, fall to Reds in split-squad games Los Angeles Angels | Miguel Sanó arrives in Angels camp after losing 58 pounds Los Angeles Angels | Jo Adell has two extra-base hits in Angels’ spring-opening tie “We’re just trying to get that mindset,” Washington said. “If you get thrown out, get up, brush yourself off and when you get back out there, do it again. We’re not going to stop pushing the envelope unless a team stops us.” NOTES Left-hander José Suarez is not scheduled to pitch in a game yet. Washington said Suarez, who pitched in winter ball, is healthy. “Early on his arm wasn’t live, so we’re going to give him a little break to get his arm back,” Washington said. … Angels broadcaster Mark Gubicza is scheduled to be in uniform as a guest instructor, starting Wednesday. A veteran of 14 big-league seasons, Gubicza has never served as an instructor with the Angels. Former Angels shortstop David Eckstein will also be a guest instructor, starting Wednesday. View the full article

THE GAME: The Angels blew an early seven-run lead to fall behind by two, but they scored four runs in the seventh to pull out an 11-9 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Monday at Scottsdale Stadium in Scottsdale, Ariz. PITCHING REPORT: Right-hander Griffin Canning worked around four singles to pitch two scoreless innings. Canning struck out one, getting Michael Conforto on a changeup in the first inning. Canning needed just eight pitches to get through the second inning. “He was aggressive,” Manager Ron Washington said. “He was very, very aggressive. That’s what I liked about it. He certainly had an idea how to use his pitches.” … Right-hander José Soriano allowed three runs in two innings. … Right-hander Ben Joyce walked the bases loaded and then gave up a grand slam on a 3-and-1 pitch. He recorded just one out before he was pulled. Joyce’s fastball topped out at 101 mph. “You can see he was overthrowing,” Washington said. “Once he learns how to control that arm of his, with that velocity in it, he’s going to be dangerous.” … Left-hander Jack Dashwood worked a scoreless inning to protect a two-run lead in the eighth. There were runners at second and third when Manager Ron Washington came to the mound to give him a pep talk, and Dashwood responded with an inning-ending strikeout. HITTING REPORT: Ehire Adrianza hit a home run on the first pitch of the game. Adrianza, who is in camp competing for a utility infield spot, came up with the Giants. … Jason Martin, who drove in a run with a first-inning single, has driven in at least one run in all three games he’s played. … Aaron Hicks lined a hit into the gap in right-center. It was misplayed by Giants center fielder Wade Meckler and ruled a triple. Hicks was hitting right-handed, which is his better side. Hicks also singled from the left side in his first at-bat. … Hunter Dozier hit a three-run homer, improving to 3 for 6 this spring. Dozier, who has played parts of seven years in the majors, is competing for a spot on the Angels’ bench. … In the seventh, Charles LeBlanc tied the score with a two-run single and then 18-year-old Nelson Rada, one of the Angels’ top prospects, followed with a two-run single. … The Angels drew seven walks. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Ron Washington looks to Griffin Canning as a leader among Angels’ pitchers Los Angeles Angels | Angels shut out by Royals, fall to Reds in split-squad games Los Angeles Angels | Miguel Sanó arrives in Angels camp after losing 58 pounds Los Angeles Angels | Jo Adell has two extra-base hits in Angels’ spring-opening tie Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Chase Silseth looks to reclaim form before last year’s concussion DEFENSE REPORT: Right fielder Jake Marisnick misplayed a single, allowing the runner to go to second. … Right-hander Walbert Ureña picked off a runner at first to escape a jam in the sixth inning. UP NEXT: Angels (RHP Zach Plesac) vs. Brewers (RHP Janson Junk) at Tempe Diablo Stadium, Tuesday, 12:10 p.m. PT, Bally Sports West, 830 AM View the full article

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — As Ron Washington gets to know his players, beyond simply the numbers they’ve produced, Griffin Canning made an immediate impression on his new manager. Washington, in fact, pulled the right-hander aside this spring to let him know what he thought of his work. “There may be older guys on that pitching staff, but let me tell you something, they don’t handle their business the way you handle yours,” Washington told Canning. Canning is 27 and has only made it through one full big league season in the rotation. The others were interrupted by injuries or the pandemic. Still, Washington likes what he’s seen. “He’s an athlete and he’s a natural leader and that attribute I want him to use every day,” Washington said. “He’s got all those kids with him. Bring them with him. Don’t you do it and hope they follow. No, no, no. Make them follow. Because you do it right. You stand out. I let him know that I want him to lead that pitching staff.” After Canning worked two scoreless innings against the San Francisco Giants in his spring debut on Monday, he said he appreciated Washington’s confidence. “Obviously Wash has been in the game for a long time, so that’s awesome to hear,” Canning said. “I want to prove him right. I want to be a leader so I’ll do what I can.” Canning was the Angels’ second round pick in 2017, and he’s been in the majors since 2019, although he’s been injured for much of that time. “When you look at it, I’m one of the guys that has been with Angels the longest now, so I know kind of where we can improve and that kind of thing,” Canning said. “If we can turn around the culture and kind of set it how we want it to be then, yeah, anything I can do to help.” For his part, Canning will simply be trying to take the next step on what he did last season, which was an encouraging 127 innings. He had missed the previous season and a half with a stress fracture in his back. “It was very satisfying,” Canning said of his 2023 season. “After that last start, it was a big emotional dump to relax a little bit. I was proud of myself and thankful for the people around me that helped me get to that point. While you’re hurt, you think about how good it’s going to feel once you come out the other side.” Canning made 22 starts and posted a 4.32 ERA. He gave up three runs or fewer in 16 of his starts. “It was probably my most rewarding season personally, knowing everything I went through and how hard I had to work,” Canning said. The next step for him is to make another jump in terms of innings, and further minimize the rough outings. “I think it’s more just a mentality thing,” Canning said. “I think my pitches are my pitches. Obviously we’re going to tinker and make it as best as we can, but it’s just going out there and executing one pitch at a time. It pretty much boils down to throwing strikes, jumping ahead of the hitters, all of the sort of cliche things. Usually the simple things are the most important things.” NOTES Right-hander Adam Cimber (left hamstring tightness) was cleared to return to regular activity. … Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels shut out by Royals, fall to Reds in split-squad games Los Angeles Angels | Miguel Sanó arrives in Angels camp after losing 58 pounds Los Angeles Angels | Jo Adell has two extra-base hits in Angels’ spring-opening tie Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Chase Silseth looks to reclaim form before last year’s concussion Los Angeles Angels | Alexander: Who wants to be commissioner of baseball? Left-hander José Quijada (Tommy John surgery) has been doing long toss. He was scheduled to get out to 120 feet on Monday. The Angels are planning on Quijada returning sometime in June or July. … Outfielder Nelson Rada, one of the Angels’ top prospects, is in big league camp even though he’s just 18. “He looks young,” Washington said. “You can see his game is not all the way there yet. But it’s good for the level that he plays. He’s got a lot of upside. It’s good for him to be getting this competition. He’ll leave here better than he was when he came.” … The early returns on Jo Adell’s swing changes have Washington optimistic that he will cut down on his strikeouts. “I believe his contact rate is going to go up this year,” Washington said. “It might go up a percent. It might go up 2%. And you never know, it might go up 15%. He’s working on some things to try to put himself in a better position to be able to make better contact when he decides to explode at a baseball.” Adell has struck out in 35.4% of his plate appearances in his major league career, with a contact rate of 63.8%. The major league average is 74.2%. … View the full article

THE GAMES: The Angels lost a pair of games on Sunday, falling 1-0 to the Kansas City Royals at Tempe Diablo Stadium and losing, 9-4, to the Cincinnati Reds at Goodyear Ballpark. PITCHING REPORT: In Tempe, right-hander Andrew Wantz got the start and pitched two scoreless innings, although he gave up three hits in the second. Wantz is a candidate for the Angels bullpen. “Out of the chute, Wantzy setting the tone was big,” said Angels bench coach Ray Montgomery, who led the team in Tempe while manager Ron Washington went to Goodyear. “He came in and attacked the zone. I liked his presence. I liked how he finished some hitters. I liked how he mixed and matched.” … Left-hander Drew Pomeranz and right-hander Hunter Strickland each worked one perfect inning. … Right-hander Jimmy Herget gave up a leadoff single, but he struck out the next two and got a fly ball to escape with a scoreless inning. … The only run the Royals scored was an unearned run against right-hander Kelvin Caceres in the fifth inning. … In Goodyear, left-hander Kenny Rosenberg gave up one run in two innings. … Right-hander Luis Rangel gave up five runs, including a three-run homer by Luke Maile. HITTING REPORT: In Tempe, Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon were both hitless in two at-bats. They each had a chance to drive in a run in the third inning, after Aaron Hicks doubled. … In Goodyear, outfield prospect Nelson Rada led off the game with a walk and then he stole second and third. … Jason Martin drove in a run with a sacrifice fly and he also doubled. Martin has driven in three runs in his first two games. … Miguel Sanó struck out twice and was hit by a pitch. Sanó played even though he just arrived in camp on Sunday after being delayed by visa issues. DEFENSE REPORT: In Tempe, Hicks threw out a runner at the plate from right field, ending the second inning. … Second baseman Brandon Drury made a leaping attempt to catch a line drive, but it hit off his glove. It was ruled a hit. … Third baseman Arol Vera made a diving play. The ball initially hit off his glove, but he recovered quickly enough to still get the out at first. … First baseman Eric Wagaman made a lunging grab of a ground ball that was headed down the line, but later in the inning he failed to catch a throw, for an error. That extended the inning, allowing the Royals to score the only run of the game on a Caceres wild pitch. UP NEXT: Angels (RHP Griffin Canning) at Giants (RHP Mason Black) at Scottsdale Stadium, Monday, 12:05 p.m. PT, Bally Sports West, 830 AM. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Miguel Sanó arrives in Angels camp after losing 58 pounds Los Angeles Angels | Jo Adell has two extra-base hits in Angels’ spring-opening tie Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Chase Silseth looks to reclaim form before last year’s concussion Los Angeles Angels | Alexander: Who wants to be commissioner of baseball? Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Zach Plesac has two new pitches as he attempts career reboot View the full article

TEMPE, Ariz. — It remains to be seen whether Miguel Sanó has any good baseball left in him, but he made a good impression the moment he walked in the door at Angels spring training. Sanó, who was delayed by visa issues in the Dominican Republic and arrived Sunday, said he lost 58 pounds in the last year. “He looks real good,” manager Ron Washington said. “And he’s in a great fame of mind.” Washington, however, conceded that on the field Sanó is “a little rough right now,” and then he joked that “we’re just going to have to beat him into shape.” Sanó, 30, has hit at least 25 homers in four big league seasons with the Minnesota Twins, including 30 in 2021. In 2022, he hit .083 and was released. He then dealt with left knee issues, which was one of the reasons that he decided he needed to get into better shape. “It was very important to me,” Sanó said through an interpreter. “I feel better and lighter, and that will help me have better performance on the field.” The Angels signed Sanó to a minor league deal based on how he looked in winter ball, and he’d been working out at the team’s complex in the Dominican Republic until he was able to get to Arizona. There is a pathway for him to make the big league roster. A right-handed hitter, Sanó could play third and first and he can also be the DH. If no one is hurt, the Angels have one infield spot up for grabs. An injury would obviously open another spot. “To be a good team you need stories,” general manager Perry Minasian said. “You need some guys to emerge that aren’t talked about a ton. Or younger players that develop at a certain time. (Sanó) is someone we really liked going into the offseason as long as he proved he’s healthy. He played in winter ball and played well, so we thought we should take a shot at him.” MEJIA RELEASED The Angels released veteran catcher Francisco Mejia, which was a surprising move after just one Cactus League game. Minasian said that Mejia’s goal was to make the big league team out of camp, and the Angels realized that wasn’t likely to happen on their roster. “He wants to be in the big leagues,” Minasian said. “He’s been in the big leagues a long time. As currently constructed, it would have been very difficult to make this team, which was his goal.” Mejia, 28, has played 355 games in the majors over parts of seven years, including 50 games with the Tampa Bay Rays last season. Logan O’Hoppe and Matt Thaiss are in line to be the two catchers on the major league roster, and the Angels also have Chad Wallach, Caleb Hamilton and Zach Humphreys as depth. Minasian pointed out that the Angels signed Mejia early in the offseason, before they had re-signed Wallach and when they had more questions about Humphreys and Hamilton. Humphreys was injured last season. Although Mejia was behind the plate when the Angels gave up five runs in the eighth inning on Saturday, Minasian and Washington said this decision was not related to Mejia’s performance. The three pitchers he handled issued five walks. PEP TALK After left-hander Nick Jones walked the first batter he faced in the top of the ninth inning on Saturday, Washington went to the mound to talk to the 25-year-old. He said it was to tell Jones to throw strikes. Jones settled down and escaped the inning with no runs scoring. While many managers only go to the mound when they are making a pitching change, and they leave other visits to the pitching coach, Washington said he is not shy about making some visits himself. Teams are now allowed only four mound visits per game, excluding pitching changes. That’s one fewer than last year, but that won’t dissuade Washington. “For a mechanical and pitching thing, you’ll see the pitching coach,” Washington said. “When I’m ready to get in your head, you’ll see me. I’m a psychologist. When I go out there I’m going out to make them believe they can get off this field. … When I’ve got a message to deliver, I’m going to deliver it. That’s who I am. I’m not worried about (the number of) mound visits.” Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Jo Adell has two extra-base hits in Angels’ spring-opening tie Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Chase Silseth looks to reclaim form before last year’s concussion Los Angeles Angels | Alexander: Who wants to be commissioner of baseball? Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Zach Plesac has two new pitches as he attempts career reboot Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Ron Washington has a tentative lineup plan, with Anthony Rendon hitting cleanup NOTES Infielder Luis Rengifo (left hamstring tightness) said he’ll be able to play “really soon.” … Infielder Michael Stefanic (left quad strain) was unsure of a timetable for his return. Stefanic was hurt during Saturday’s game. He said on Sunday that he felt better. “I’m just disappointed,” he said. “You work very hard all season to get ready for this, and the first time it just kind of grabbed on me a little bit. I’ll heal and get back as soon as I can.” … Right-hander José Cisnero arrived in camp on Sunday after being delayed in the Dominican Republic by visa issues. Cisnero had been working out at the Angels complex in the Dominican, so he said he’s ready to go. He was scheduled to throw live batting practice on Sunday. View the full article

THE GAME: Jo Adell tripled and doubled in the Angels’ 7-7 tie against the Dodgers on Saturday at Tempe Diablo Stadium. The game, which was the Angels first of the spring, drew a sell-out crowd of 9,649. The Angels led until the eighth inning, when the Dodgers scored five runs to take the lead. PITCHING REPORT: Right-hander Victor Mederos worked two scoreless innings, striking out three. In the first inning, the Dodgers had two on and one out, but Mederos struck out Teoscar Hernandez and got Austin Barnes on a flyout. … Right-hander Davis Daniel gave up one unearned run in two innings, striking out two. … Right-hander Guillo Zuñiga pitched a scoreless inning with two strikeouts. Zuniga, whose fastball reaches 101 mph, was acquired from the St. Louis Cardinals earlier this month. … Left-hander Adam Kolarek gave up a run against one of his former teams. Kolarek allowed two hits and a walk, and he hit a batter. … Minor-league pitchers Joel Hurtado and Michael Darrell-Hicks combined to give up five runs on two hits in the eighth inning. HITTING REPORT: Adell tripled into the gap in left-center field, driving in a run, in his first at-bat against Dodgers right-hander Tyler Glasnow. “The kid can hit the ball hard,” Angels manager Ron Washington said. “Today he caught one off Glasnow, and people don’t go up there and get that fastball off Glasnow.” Adell then doubled in his second at-bat. Adell homered in his first game of the spring each of the previous two years. … Nolan Schanuel singled in the first inning, but then he got doubled off first base. On a fly ball to right field, the throw went home, and Schanuel didn’t realize Dodgers second baseman Mookie Betts came in behind him to take a throw from first baseman Kevin Padlo, the cutoff man. … Mike Trout hit a pair of fly outs in his two at-bats… Jake Marisnick drove in a run with a double. … Jordyn Adams pulled a double down the left-field line. … Jason Martin hit a two-run homer to tie the game at 7 in the eighth. Martin, a product of Orange Lutheran High, has not played in the majors since 2021. He played in South Korea last season. Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Chase Silseth looks to reclaim form before last year’s concussion Los Angeles Angels | Alexander: Who wants to be commissioner of baseball? Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Zach Plesac has two new pitches as he attempts career reboot Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Ron Washington has a tentative lineup plan, with Anthony Rendon hitting cleanup Los Angeles Angels | The Audible: All-Star angst? UCLA or USC Madness? And are Angel fans just mad? DEFENSE REPORT: Shortstop Zach Neto mishandled a routine grounder behind second base, leading to a run… Second baseman Livan Soto made a backhand play in front of the bag and then a strong throw, just in time to get the third out and leave the bases loaded in the sixth inning. INJURY REPORT: Infielder Michael Stefanic came out of the game with a left quad strain. He will be re-evaluated Sunday. UP NEXT: Angels (RHP Andrew Wantz) vs. Royals (LHP Cole Ragans) at Tempe Diablo Stadium, Sunday, 12:10 p.m. PT Sunday, Bally Sports West, 830 AM; Angels (LHP Kenny Rosenberg) vs. Reds (RHP Hunter Greene), at Goodyear Ballpark, 12:05 p.m. Sunday View the full article

TEMPE, Ariz. — Chase Silseth’s confidence was soaring last summer, after encouraging performances against some of the best teams in baseball. The Angels right-hander was learning how to pitch, not just throw, and then it all came to a quick, frightening stop. Silseth was hit in the head by a throw during a rundown, suffering a concussion that cost him most of the season’s final month. “It sucked to get hit in the head,” Silseth said. “That whole September could have been a learning experience for me.” Silseth came back to pitch one last game, allowing one run in four innings in the final weekend, but it wasn’t the same as the groove he had found before the head injury. “That was a big, big, big, big confidence for me,” Silseth said. “When you pitch against one good team, you build confidence for the next good team. And I showed I could do it when I just stayed within myself, not to trying to blow it out. My stuff is good enough to get people out in the zone. Just have to get ahead in the count to get to all my nasty stuff.” Before Silseth took the mound against the New York Yankees on July 19, his season had been a series of changes, from Triple-A to the majors and from starting to relieving. The Angels had always believed in Silseth’s potential, but he had not shown that he could maintain his stuff beyond about 60 pitches. At times, there was an internal struggle within the organization over whether they should keep pushing him to get him to pitch deeper in games, or just settle with what he was and use him as a reliever. Just after the All-Star break, though, Silseth returned from a trip to the minors for a start against the Yankees, and he struck out 10 in 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run. He then gave up one run in five innings of a victory over the Atlanta Braves, and then he gave up two runs in seven innings, with 12 strikeouts, against the Seattle Mariners. Silseth followed that by pitching five scoreless innings against the Houston Astros. Silseth didn’t get a chance to keep rolling because of the freak accident Aug. 26 in New York. He was running from the mound toward third base when first baseman Trey Cabbage’s throw to third hit Silseth in the temple. He said he didn’t realize what happened at first. After the initial disturbing diagnosis of a concussion, Silseth expected to have a quick recovery. He said he felt fine until he started to work out, and then symptoms returned. He didn’t pitch again until Sept. 29. Now, Silseth is in line to be the Angels’ No. 5 starter, although he’ll face some competition from left-hander José Suarez and right-hander Zach Plesac in spring training. Silseth, 23, comes into camp after a winter of extra work on his legs, which he said is vital to help him maintain his stuff deeper into games. “Late in games last year, I was able to keep my stuff,” Silseth said. “It was a difference maker. Killing my legs (in the gym). Hopefully it’s working.” NOTES Infielder Luis Rengifo felt some tightness in his left hamstring during a baserunning drill Friday and was not available to play in the Angels’ first game of the spring on Saturday. Rengifo is expected to miss just a few days. “When he felt it, he took himself out,” manager Ron Washington said. “He didn’t try to work through it. He didn’t try to push it. He took himself out. That was very, very smart.” … Related Articles Los Angeles Angels | Alexander: Who wants to be commissioner of baseball? Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Zach Plesac has two new pitches as he attempts career reboot Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Ron Washington has a tentative lineup plan, with Anthony Rendon hitting cleanup Los Angeles Angels | The Audible: All-Star angst? UCLA or USC Madness? And are Angel fans just mad? Los Angeles Angels | Angels’ Logan O’Hoppe has ‘a better idea of what’s going on’ Third baseman Anthony Rendon was not in Saturday’s lineup because he told Washington that he preferred to wait until Sunday to play his first Cactus League game. … Right-hander Andrew Wantz is scheduled to start for the Angels at home Sunday, with left-hander Kenny Rosenberg starting against the Cincinnati Reds on the road. Right-hander Griffin Canning will start Monday, and he’ll be followed by right-hander Zach Plesac on Tuesday, left-hander Tyler Anderson on Wednesday, left-hander Patrick Sandoval on Thursday and left-hander Reid Detmers on Friday. Chase Silseth is scheduled to follow Sandoval on Thursday. View the full article