2011 MLB Preview: Los Angeles Angels

2010 Record: 80-82

Pitching:

1. J. Weaver
2. D. Haren
3. E. Santana
4. S. Kazmir
5. J. Pineiro

Not a bad rotation. Weaver had a hell of a year in 2010 (13-12 3.01 ERA over 224.1 innings). If the Angels had a better offense Weaver could've easily had 18 wins. Behind him the Angels also have Dan Haren (5-4 2.87 ERA 1.16 WHIP in 14 starts with Angels), who I actually think will end up being the "ace" of this staff. Santana had a really good year in 2010, but he is one of those guys who seems to have a good year every other year. Kazmir is looking to bounce back, and although early reports indicate that he looks better on the mound, they seem to say that about everyone this time of year, so I wouldn't put too much stock into that. Pineiro is solid, and a decent guy to have as your 5th starter. The bullpen could be a little alarming. Fernando Rodney will start the year at closer with Downs setting him up, but I wouldn't be overly confident in Rodney.

Batting:

1 Erick Aybar SS
2 Bobby Abreu DH
3 Kendry Morales 1B
4 Vernon Wells OF
5 Torii Hunter OF
6 Howie Kendrick 2B
7 Alberto Callaspo 3B
8 Peter Bourjos OF
9 Jeff Mathis C

The Vernon Wells trade was dumb, because of the money, and no one will argue that, but that doesn't mean the Angels didn't upgrade their offense. Abreu, Morales, Wells, Hunter give the Angels a very nice 2-5 hitters. I worry about their leadoff spot, because Aybar isn't all that great, so a big thing for them this year could be the improvement of Peter Bourjos. This lineup doesn't WOW you, but I really think people forget that this could be a team that puts up some runs, and plays great defense. Sure, it won't last long with Wells, Abreu, and Hunter aging, but for this year they should be in good shape.

Overall:

When I started this preview I really thought I was just going to shit on the Angels for having such a terrible offseason, but there are a lot of things to like about this team. They have a very solid rotation with a lineup to back it up (not to mention play some defense). Morales needs to come back healthy and have a big year, but if he does this could be a dangerous team.

2011 Record: 88-74