Los Angeles Angels Expected To Take Controversial Approach To MLB Trade Deadline

The Los Angeles Angels have been infrequently mentioned in MLB trade rumors, with the understanding they will be sellers at the MLB trade deadline. However, the Angels front office reportedly might not be willing to move as many players as once thought.

Los Angeles has plenty of MLB trade candidates for clubs to choose from. Starting pitcher Tyler Anderson has been excellent this season and with another year of control control, the Angels could receive even more in return for him. Likewise, Taylor Ward and Luis Rengifo have added trade value because they are playing on multi-year contracts.

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It seemingly would allow the Angels to become one of the biggest sellers at the MLB trade deadline, putting the front office in a position to reload the farm system. As badly as that is needed in Los Angeles, it appears that option isn’t on the table.

According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale , the Angels aren’t planning to trade Anderson, Ward or Griffin Canning this summer. The only way Los Angeles would even consider moving one of the aforementioned players is if they receive “overwhelming” offers.

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That’s unlikely to happen, especially with Ward (.743 OPS) underperforming this season and Canning (4.87 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) struggling all year. With overwhelming offers not expected to come, Los Angeles is poised to keep two of its top trade candidates.

However, others will be moved. Nightengale reports that the Angels front office is being “bombarded” with calls inquiring about closer Carlos Estevez. Considering he’s viewed as one of the best relievers available for trade, Los Angeles does have a chance to get a strong return by trading him.

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A fire sale isn’t coming nor is a much-needed rebuild. Instead, the Angels roster will largely stay intact with just a few relievers and half-season rentals being moved. While it’s an example of the Angels front office not taking full advantage of the MLB trade deadline, it’s a more active approach as a seller than teams like the Colorado Rockies are expected to take.