Angels Seek Rotation Help After Detmers Decision, Rendon Injury Woes Continue
Detmers to Return to Angels Rotation in 2026
The Los Angeles Angels have made a key decision regarding their starting rotation for the 2026 season. General manager Perry Minasian revealed that left-hander Reid Detmers will return to the starting rotation after spending the 2025 campaign primarily in a relief role.
Detmers, the Angels' first-round pick in 2020, struggled early in his transition to the bullpen but turned things around in the second half of the season. From June onward, the 25-year-old made 13 scoreless appearances, providing a much-needed boost to the Angels' relief corps.
Despite Detmers' success in relief, the Angels believe his long-term future is in the starting rotation. Alongside Yusei Kikuchi and José Soriano, Detmers will form the top three in the Angels' 2026 rotation, though the team may still look to add further depth and experience to the group.
Rendon's Injury Woes Continue to Plague Angels
In more concerning news for the Angels, general manager Minasian provided an unfortunate update on third baseman Anthony Rendon's recovery from offseason hip surgery. Rendon, who signed a seven-year, $245 million contract with the team in 2019, has yet to resume baseball activities and remains sidelined.
The 31-year-old Rendon has struggled with injuries throughout his tenure in Anaheim, playing in just 157 games over the past three seasons. His inability to stay healthy has been a major disappointment for the Angels, who were hoping the former All-Star would anchor their lineup alongside superstar Mike Trout.
With Rendon's future uncertain, the Angels may need to explore alternative options at the hot corner. Some potential internal candidates include utility man Luis Rengifo, as well as prospects Nolan Schanuel and Kyren Paris, both of whom have seen time at third base in the minors.
Angels Bullpen in Flux After Quijada Departure
The Angels' bullpen also saw some turnover, as veteran left-hander José Quijada elected to leave the organization and test free agency. Quijada, 29, made just two appearances at the MLB level in 2025 but spent the majority of the season pitching in the minors.
His departure leaves the Angels with some uncertainty in their relief corps, particularly from the left side. The team may look to internal options like Denzer Guzmán or Christian Moore to fill the void, or they could explore free agent or trade opportunities to bolster the bullpen this offseason.
Top Prospects Shine in Angels System
Despite the roster challenges, the Angels' farm system continues to produce intriguing talent. Outfielder Bryce Teodosio, the team's first-round pick in 2024, had a breakout season at Double-A, batting .295 with 18 home runs and 26 stolen bases.
Additionally, right-hander Jack Kochanowicz, a second-round selection in 2021, emerged as one of the Angels' top pitching prospects. The 23-year-old dominated at High-A, posting a 2.87 ERA with 132 strikeouts in 119 innings.
The Angels will be counting on continued development from their minor league system to help supplement the major league roster in the coming years, as they aim to build a contender around the perennial All-Star duo of Mike Trout and Taylor Ward.
TL;DR
- The Angels have decided to return Reid Detmers to the starting rotation in 2026 after a successful stint in the bullpen.
- Anthony Rendon's injury woes continue, as the third baseman has yet to resume baseball activities following offseason hip surgery.
- Veteran reliever José Quijada has elected to leave the Angels organization and test free agency.
- Top prospects Bryce Teodosio and Jack Kochanowicz had breakout seasons in the Angels' minor league system.