The Los Angeles Angels are navigating a challenging 2024 season marked by significant changes and ongoing struggles. Shohei Ohtani’s departure to the Los Angeles Dodgers during the offseason has left a considerable void in the team. Ohtani, a global superstar and a unique talent as both a pitcher and designated hitter, had been a cornerstone of the Angels’ roster. His move across town has undoubtedly been a bitter pill for the fanbase.
Compounding the team’s woes, Mike Trout, another of the Angels’ marquee players, is on the injured list following knee surgery. These setbacks have contributed to the Angels’ current position in the AL West standings, making climbing out of this hole a daunting task for the remainder of the 2024 season.
As of July 30, 2024, the Angels hold a record of 47-60, placing them fourth in the AL West. This record reflects a season of inconsistency, with the team showing brief flashes of potential but falling short more often than not. The Angels have struggled at home and on the road, with a home record of 24-32 and an away record of 23-28. They remain at long odds to make the playoffs, according to sportsbooks listed at bonusfinder.com, and it’s no mystery to see why.
Expectations Not Met
Numerous players on the Angels’ roster have not met expectations this season, leading to growing frustration among the fanbase. However, some players, such as rookie Nolan Schanuel, have been spared from the brunt of the criticism due to their inexperience. Others, like Carson Fulmer and Hunter Strickland, have performed adequately, thus avoiding significant blame.
Unfortunately, not all players have been so fortunate. Once a highly-touted prospect, Mickey Moniak has struggled mightily, swinging at nearly every pitch and posting poor strikeout and walk rates. His lack of production at the plate has led to increasing impatience among fans, who have already seen the team part ways with other underperforming players.
José Suarez has also been a source of frustration for Angels fans. Despite a promising 2022 season, Suarez’s performance has plummeted, with a high ERA and an alarming number of walks. His inability to deliver consistent results has made his position in the bullpen precarious. Similarly, José Cisnero has struggled, with his high ERA and poor performance metrics making him a target of fan ire. Despite his ability to generate strikeouts, opposing batters have hit Cisnero hard, contributing to the bullpen’s overall struggles.
Despite being on the injured list, Anthony Rendon continues to draw the ire of the fanbase. His frequent injuries and limited playing time since joining the Angels have exasperated fans. The financial burden of his contract makes it difficult for the team to move on from him, adding to the frustrations of a fanbase that sees little hope for change in this regard.
The dissatisfaction extends beyond the players to management and ownership. A recent survey revealed that most fans rated owner Arte Moreno’s performance as poor, with many expressing frustration over the team’s lack of a clear direction. The Angels’ failure to secure a stadium deal and their minor league system’s disarray have only added to the discontent. The loss of Ohtani and consecutive 73-win seasons have left fans questioning the team’s future and management’s ability to turn things around.
Trade Deadline
The 2024 MLB trade deadline saw the Angels making some moves, though they were relatively minimal. The team traded right-handed reliever Luis Garcia to the Boston Red Sox for four minor leaguers. Additionally, closer Carlos Estévez was shipped to the Philadelphia Phillies. However, despite reported interest from other teams, the Angels held on to players like starting pitcher Tyler Anderson, infielder Luis Rengifo, and outfielders Taylor Ward and Kevin Pillar. General Manager Perry Minasian explained that the offers they received did not meet the team’s valuation of these players, who remain under control for at least one more season.
The Angels’ decision to retain critical players like Anderson, Rengifo, and Ward suggests a strategy focused on potential contention in 2025. Anderson, who has been an All-Star this season with a 2.96 ERA, remains a valuable asset despite not fitting the typical postseason profile of a hard-throwing strikeout pitcher. Rengifo, hitting .300 with a .769 OPS, and Ward, despite his struggles, provide versatility and depth to the roster. Though performing well, Pillar was seen as less likely to fetch a significant return due to his role as a fourth outfielder on an expiring contract.
Manager Ron Washington has expressed optimism about the team’s future, emphasizing the growth and development of younger players. He believes that with some additional pieces, the Angels can realistically contend in 2025. The trades made at the deadline have also bolstered the upper levels of the Angels’ farm system, adding depth and potential future contributors. Ultimately, the team didn’t opt for a rebuild and did little to advance their competitiveness, leaving many fans scratching their heads.
Winning Fans Back
Despite these challenges, there are efforts to win back the fans. The team has been focusing on providing incentives and engaging with the community to maintain fan interest. However, the crowded Southern California market, dominated by teams like the Dodgers and Giants, makes this an uphill battle. The Angels have considered expanding their fan base beyond California, targeting states without MLB teams and offering digital incentives to attract new supporters. This strategy aims to broaden their reach and create new revenue streams, although it may seem counterintuitive to prioritize non-local fans.
The Angels’ current struggles starkly contrast their past successes, including their memorable 2002 World Series championship season. That year, the team captured the hearts of fans with their remarkable playoff run and ultimate victory. However, the years since have been marked by inconsistency and missed opportunities, with the team failing to replicate that level of success. The departure of Ohtani and the ongoing struggles of critical players have only added to the team’s frustration and uncertainty.
In this challenging environment, the Angels seek ways to rebuild and reconnect with their fanbase while navigating the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.