Threat Level: 9
No team in the offseason went with the “win now” philosophy more than the Los Angeles Angels. They signed Albert Pujols to a long contract last year and signed coveted free-agent Josh Hamilton to big five year deal this offseason. They made long term commitments over the last two seasons and have a lot of money tied up to aging players, which could end up backfiring in the long run. However, if they win a World Series or two, it would all be worth it. For 2013, the Angels may have the most dangerous lineup in the American League. Their middle of the order, which includes Pujols, Hamilton, and Mark Trumbo, could easily combine for 100 total home runs and phenom Mike Trout at the top of the lineup is the ultimate table setter. They signed Ryan Madson to help their bullpen and acquired Tommy Hanson, who is coming off tommy john surgery, to shore up their rotation after ace Jered Weaver. Like many teams, the Angels are going to need consistency from their pitchers if they are going to hit their sky-high expectations. However, pitching issues aside, this team is the favorite to win the AL West and do not be surprised to see them representing the American League in the World Series.
Projected Lineup:
1. Mike Trout LF
2. Erick Aybar SS
3. Albert Pujols 1B
4. Josh Hamilton RF
5. Mark Trumbo DH
6. Howie Kendrick 2B
7. Alberto Callaspo 3B
8. Chris Iannetta C
9. Peter Bourjos CF
Projected Starting Rotation
1. Jered Weaver RHP
2. C.J. Wilson LHP
3. Joe Blanton RHP
4. Jason Vargas LHP
5. Tommy Hanson RHP
Closer
Ernesto Frieri RHP
Yankee Killer: Mark Trumbo
On a team filled with stars, like Weaver, Trout, Pujols, and Hamilton, it is Mark Trumbo who has has the best career numbers against the Yankees compared to everyone else on the roster. In only 17 games, he has a .359 batting average, 7 home runs, 12 RBI’s and 14 runs scored. On a long list of power hitters on the Angels, Trumbo deserves to be mentioned in that class as well. I saw the Angels last season and Trumbo put on a show during batting practice. Big-time power.
Angel Killer: Derek Jeter
Over the years, the Yankees have had trouble beating the Angels, whether it be in the regular season or the postseason. However, that is no fault of Jeter. In 161 games against the Angels, he has a .333 batting average with 17 home runs, 85 RBI’s, and 108 runs scored. In a season’s worth of games against an opponent, that’s not a bad season.
When They Play The Yankees:
IN NY: 8/12-8/15.
IN LA: 6/14-6/16.
