The Los Angeles Angels have made another splash in free agency, agreeing to terms with left-handed starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi on a three-year, $63 million contract, as confirmed by sources close to the situation. This move comes as part of an aggressive offseason for the Angels, who are determined to bolster their roster and end their postseason drought.
Kikuchi, 33, is coming off a strong second half of the 2024 season after being traded from the Toronto Blue Jays to the Houston Astros. In his 10 starts with the Astros, he posted an impressive 2.70 ERA, playing a key role in their playoff push. Overall, Kikuchi compiled a respectable 4.05 ERA across 32 starts split between the two teams last year.
Durability and Consistency
One of the most appealing aspects of Kikuchi’s game is his durability. He has made at least 29 starts in each of the past four seasons, including 32 starts in both 2023 and 2024. This consistency and ability to take the ball every fifth day undoubtedly played a role in the Angels’ decision to invest in the southpaw.
According to a source familiar with the negotiations, the Angels were drawn to Kikuchi’s track record of health and his ability to eat innings. In a rotation that has been plagued by injuries in recent years, having a reliable arm like Kikuchi could prove invaluable.
A Fresh Start in Los Angeles
Kikuchi, a six-year MLB veteran, will be joining his fourth team after previously playing for the Seattle Mariners, Toronto Blue Jays, and Houston Astros. His most successful season came in 2023 with the Blue Jays, when he went 11-6 with a 3.86 ERA, helping the team reach the postseason.
Now, as he embarks on a new chapter with the Angels, Kikuchi will be looking to build upon his recent success and contribute to a team that hasn’t made the playoffs since 2014. An insider close to the team noted that Kikuchi is “excited about the opportunity to pitch in a big market like Los Angeles” and is “motivated to help the Angels get back to the postseason.”
An Offseason of Aggressive Moves
The signing of Kikuchi is just the latest in a series of bold moves by the Angels this offseason. The team has already added another starting pitcher in Kyle Hendricks, signed catcher Travis d’Arnaud, and traded for outfielder Jorge Soler. These acquisitions demonstrate the Angels’ commitment to improving their roster and competing in the tough American League West.
The Angels have been by far the most aggressive team in MLB so far this winter.
– Industry insider
With Kikuchi now in the fold, the Angels have taken another significant step toward bolstering their pitching staff. His presence should help take some pressure off the team’s other starters and provide manager Phil Nevin with a reliable left-handed option in the rotation.
Expectations for 2025 and Beyond
As the Angels continue to make moves and reshape their roster, expectations for the 2025 season and beyond are on the rise. The team’s fan base, which has endured a lengthy postseason drought, is hoping that the addition of players like Kikuchi, Hendricks, d’Arnaud, and Soler will be enough to propel the Angels back into contention.
Of course, much will depend on the health and performance of the team’s core players, including perennial MVP candidates Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani. If the Angels can keep their stars on the field and get solid contributions from their new acquisitions, they could be poised for a breakout season.
For Kikuchi, the pressure will be on to live up to his lucrative new contract and provide stability in the Angels’ rotation. If he can maintain the form he showed in the second half of the 2024 season, he could prove to be a valuable asset as the team looks to navigate the challenges of a competitive division and league.
As the offseason progresses and spring training approaches, all eyes will be on the Angels to see if their aggressive approach pays off. With Yusei Kikuchi now in the mix, the team has taken another step forward in its quest to return to prominence and give its fans the winning baseball they’ve been craving for far too long.
