The White Sox are showing interest in Griffin Canning. Former Angel: Check. Former Brave: Check. He and Sean Newcomb might get to share war stories.
The Cubs acquired Edward Cabrera from the Marlins in exchange for three prospects, one of whom was the Cubs number 1 prospect.
This is a retrospective of all the official Angels caps in history.
The Orioles designated Jhonkensy Noel for assignment. He lasted a whole two days with the Orioles.
Minor League Deals
The Guardians re-signed Dom Nunez to a minor league deal and an invite. Christian Roa got his minor league deal with the Astros. Dugan Darnell got his with the Tigers. The Royals signed infielder/outfielder Josh Rojas to a minor league deal.
Waiver Claims
Woo hoo! The Angels claimed outfielder Wade Meckler off waivers from the Giants. The Orioles claimed outfielder Marco Luciano off waivers from the Pirates. The Cubs claimed left-hander Ryan Rolison off waivers from the White Sox. The Rockies claimed right-hander Keegan Thompson from the Reds. The
Lyon Richardson cleared waivers and the Reds outrighted him to Triple-A Louisville.
Photo credit: Rex Fregosi
Never heard of any of them. If me and any one of these guys were in line at Home Depot I wouldn’t recognize them. The league office needs to intervene about this sh*t.
Angels agreed to terms on contracts for the 2026 season with five of the Club’s arbitration eligible players:
Jo Adell ($5.2 million)
Brock Burke ($2.325 million)
Zach Neto ($4.15 million)
Logan O’Hoppe ($2.625 million)
José Soriano ($2.9 million)
https://x.com/i/status/2009448892124057647
Arbitration exchange update: Reid Detmers filed at $2.925 million; the Angels filed at $2.625 million.
https://x.com/i/status/2009449662168879503
Small difference to dish out Dirt in a hearing.
And in the all things are relative, file….
$300,000 is more than probably 95% of the country earns in one year.
(Though I of course see your point. It seems stupid of the Angels to not settle this out of arbitration)
In the context of professional athletes and sports contracts $300,000 is nothing. Talk about a penny-wise pound-foolish Organization.
A’s again thwarted from trademarking Las Vegas Athletics. Since they are the most “mobile” might I suggest the Nomad Athletics? Or my fav, the Vagrant A’s?
The Philadelphia Athletics of Las Vegas would be too long.
Edit: I jest. I’m sure their rejection was for “False designation of origin.”
Ha! They were also rejected for being confusingly similar with the previously registered mark “Oakland A’S Athletics.” Confusing is right.
https://tsdr.uspto.gov/documentviewer?caseId=sn98196464&docId=NFIN20240523112920&linkId=2#docIndex=1&page=1
They failed to respond to this non-final office action within six months. You would think in that much time they could have filed proof that they were the same business entity or its successor in interest. That would have bought them some more time to seem like they were in Las Vegas.
Yup. Word is they can’t “own it” till they are it.
MLB games in LV will resemble NFL games in that 70% of the fans in attendance will be rooting for the “road” team.
So just like Anaheim when teams from Chicago, Boston, or New York come to town?
Pretty much. Haha
Can I change my username to Black Pill yet?
How about “Las VegA’s”
Neto avoids arbitration – $4.15 million
https://x.com/Feinsand/status/2009330048151769286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2009330048151769286%7Ctwgr%5E686e4565bfe00fcb1149318141acda9e92a3892c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fhalohangout.com%2Fzach-neto-arbitration-clock-just-revealed-cost-of-angels-impatience
Just saw this posted below by Ryanfea
Angels are broadcast free agents:
https://www.si.com/mlb/angels/onsi/angels-news/angels-part-ways-with-fanduel-sports-operator-what-next-01kefvjjjwkm
It would be awesome to go the way of the Anaheim Ducks and their partnership with Victory+ and give everyone in the SoCal market free access to all games.
Another good SI article.
Hopefully ST broadcasts won’t be a victim. The Angels broadcast as many ST games as anyone; some teams don’t seem to put on TV even half the games the Angels do but this makes me nervous.
All 9 teams (including Angels) with FanDuel Sports Net terminate their contracts. https://x.com/evandrellich/status/2009379157105385698?s=46
So any hope Rendon money would be spent elsewhere is probably gone until this gets figured out.
Man. You realize that, with interest, if we are paying him out over five years the “Rendon Money” is like seven million dollars off the books per season right?
And Yates took 5m
Is it due to some blowback after the NBA prop bets fixing?
https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2026/01/white-sox-claim-drew-romo-waivers-mets-dfa-ben-cowles.html
Sigh…. I think this is Romo #4 team this year. I wish the halos would bring him home!!!
Why? Because he is from FV? I think the Angels have plenty of scrub hitting catchers.
Fangraphs has the Zips projections for the Angels up. They are not optimistic. https://blogs.fangraphs.com/2026-zips-projections-los-angeles-angels/
These are legitimately sad predictions.
For anyone who plays MLB The Show, I have been playing the game a fair amount the last month or so with this team and I have a hard time scoring any runs. And that is in a video game!!
That’s more optimistic than I am. If you use a baseline of 50 wins (people will say usually between 47-55 as a baseline), then we are talking 73.8 to 81.8. Split it down the middle and we’re talking 77.8. I’ll take the under. Even if they added Tucker and Valdez – we’d still only project at 85. Ouch.
How do you get to 77 wins?
Who will produce 30 WAR for this team except in the most optimistic of scenarios?
As currently built I have them at 62-65 wins.
I agree. I think it’s way too optimistic. I like the lower baseline of 47 which comes in at 73.8. And I’m still bearish on that number. The retreads could surprise – and maybe we have a breakout or two, but it’s illogical to think we can be at these numbers, because we’re going to have some negative overestimates too.
After reading that I was shocked the writer ended up with us netting 70-75 wins lol.
Our future looks a lot less bleak if we can pencil 6/9 lineup spots with O’Hoppe, Schanuel, Moore, Neto, Adell, Rada. For the blow it all up crowd, I’m looking to extend Neto, Adell (won’t happen, repped by Boras), Soriano.
Those 6 players combined generated 7.5 BWAR last year, and that’s with Neto’s 5.1. That seems pretty bleak to me. That and the fact that currently we have only 4 legitimate starting pitchers who must all stay healthy. I think 70-75 is actually fairly generous. Fortunately, Moore will not be one of the starters.Honestly, other than Neto, none of these players would start on any contending team.
We are a contender –contending for the best lottery odds.
You know this roster is in bad shape when I cannot conjure up some fairytale narrative. Gotta hope the young guys take steps forward.
I know. I feel bad for you.
I got laid off on Tuesday so you can feel extra bad for me lol
Shit. That sucks. I’m sorry bro. I hate being unemployed.
Really disappointed O’Hoppe and Schanuel did not make great strides as one would hope last year. The noose tightens.
Why is there anything not bleak about Moore? He stuck his tongue out that one time and “looks like a baseball player”? O’Hoppe? An impressive home run once a month? Rada? Magic?
I’m not saying that these guys CAN’T be any good. But they have not been any good. Pretty bleak.
That’s why in my initial comment I wrote our future looks less bleak if…
If they can become 1-2 WAR players the future looks better, yay for us. If they all fail the future looks like the present, boo for us.
That’s why AM/PM needs to move Adell now. If RH OF power is absent, some team will pay up.
So we have Neto and maaaaybe 3 decent pitchers and a 55 gallon drum of manure. Cool.
Congrats to Taylor Ward for securing life altering money. $12,175,000 will set him up for life and then some.
Tay Tay! Remember when almost everyone on HH/CtPG reviled Ward for years because of their daddy issues with Arte? I do.
Did it have anything to do with Arte?
I thought it was because Dipoto drafted a light-hitting defensive catcher targeted for the third round, and then subsequent play suggested that he could neither catch very well, nor defend at a position of need, like 3B.
That he would transform himself into a power-over-hit corner OF over the next half decade was on no one’s bingo card, and that really is a testament to Ward himself. (And I’ve personally given him every kudo for becoming something he wasn’t in college, not by any stretch of the imagination. He hit 7 HRs at Fresno State, and hit .222 on the Cape with wood bats. At drafting, the upside case was Jose Molina.)
Don’t think the criticism was related to Moreno though.
A lot of people hated that pick because it was a known reach at the time and the video of the front office high fiving like they were geniuses was a kind of lightbulb for some fans that maybe we’re not as sharp as we once were.
If there was any Arte intersection it was probably that Eddie Bane (even with his warts) wasn’t running the farm anymore and that hiring someone in over their head like Reagins was the reason.
People hated on Ward well into when he was a solid player for us. Most of the tone on Ward was bitching strait through till the middle of last year, long after Ward had gotten past the stink of being mis-drafted. In fact, right around when they had to think about him being traded in July.
Or did I just miss those seasons where all these real mens of baseball were full of love for Taylor Ward?
And most of the whine around here has been greatly amplified by people who have a problem with almost anything the Angels do because Arte exists. This includes Ward, who Guardians fans would have been happy with the last for years for example. But RealFan’s diaper is always wet because Arte. It’s an auto setting.
You’re not stupid. You know that’s what I meant and that I wasn’t talking about the draft.
Between his brain farts running the bases, being slow, missing his cut off guy, bad defense, and poor batting average, there has been plenty to criticize.
Accurate take on Ward. He did transform himself to pop some home runs but the rest of his game was left behind. Too bad the Angels FO did not have the vision to trade him a year or two prior.
And if he has a good year – he’s going to get real generational money this time next year.
He is going to hit more hr next year in those al east stadiums imo.
Agreed, I think that’s low thought. He should be making at least 15.
Yup. They got a bit of a bargain.
Everybody had to exchange arbitration figures today. We’ll probably start getting a flurry of arbitration settlements.
Baltimore has already struck two deals. Mountcastle and Ward.
Phillies and Luzardo agreed to terms.
You are correct. Just after 10 am deals started coming through.
Angels, Neto agree at 4.15 million https://x.com/feinsand/status/2009330048151769286?s=46
Face of the franchise. Give that man an extension
Logan as well. https://x.com/francysromeroFR/status/2009354267199701021?s=20
Okay – I’ve been thinking the Cards would throw in something to move Arenado’s contract. But sorry, this idea is comical and absolutely not happening. You think I’m optimistic of what the Cards would be willing to do? Get a load of this.
https://halohangout.com/nolan-arenado-market-twist-could-favor-angels-big-time
Could be worse. There is probably some guy out there saying the Angels should demand a pile of money and JJ Weatherholt.
We could give them Trout for Weatherholt. LOL
That part, “…it feels inevitable…” is quite funny.
That article is ridiculous. Arenado still has positive value. If he were a free agent, he’d still easily get a multimillion guaranteed deal. If the cards were willing to make the acquiring team pay 5 million a year for the rest of the contract, they’d find a taker and save themselves money.
Arenado the player might have positive value. But Arenado the player/contract absolutely does not have positive value.
If they release him, they get nothing. They will get something. Not as much as they want – but something.
i know.
but that’s value of him at a much lower price point. That’s all I’m saying. It’s not just as simple as “he has value”
His value is so low the Cardinals will include tens of millions to save tens of millions
Agreed. They just won’t get zero. He’s still got a good chance to put a a +2 or 3. His glove and replacement level play at the plate is +1 or more if he’s healthy. I think he could come in the $8-10MM per season range with the Cards absorbing the balance. I would take a shot at that hoping that a return home and a more friendly field for him would take him up to a 2 WAR or better for a year. Probably wouldn’t pay much more than that though. Would aim for $7-8MM range. Could take it or leave it because it’s just a stop gap.
A good way to look at it is that I would love to have him for a little more per year than we paid Moncada. But I don’t want to trade real prospects to do that.
The contract is underwater, for sure, but the only reason to release him is if there’s actually someone better to take the roster spot and you can’t find any team willing to pay any portion of his contract to play. The no-trade clause makes it a little more difficult, but not impossible.
I’m not against the Angels getting him as long as the Cards pick up something like $32 million of the $42 million owed to him. That would be like getting him on a 2 yrs $10 million contract. That would save the Cards $10 million (really about $9 million if he signed somewhere else).
Exactly – plenty of teams would take his value at $5 million per year. He’s a guy you want in your clubhouse. They will get something. No chance, at all, they release him. Zero.
As far as Dumpster Diving is concerned, Wade Meckler ain’t too shabby.
Plus Plus speed, good defender and contact hitter. Who knows, he might end up being our best position player acquisition this offseason and he’s essentially free.
Yup. When the Giants released him I wanted him pretty bad. Looks like Teodosio with slightly less good defense and slightly fewer strike outs. If they can train him to be a little more aggressive stealing bases he becomes a guy who may be a legit #9 hitter in a good way.
I’d take two guys on the roster who can put up a .350+ OBP, steal 30 bases and disrupt defenses, and field well himself, for league minimum, over “slug only guy” any day.
Those type of players are always good for runs they will produce from errors too.
Main Street Sports Group has insinuated to the NBA, MLB and NHL that, with its pending sale to DAZN teetering, it is in talks with a second potential buyer that could conceivably keep its FanDuel Sports Network broadcasts afloat, sources told SBJ Wednesday.
But, while the identity and even veracity of the second bidder is unclear, MLB sources said the St. Louis Cardinals — who did not receive their December rights fee payment — have already informed Main Street they are opting out barring a lucrative 11th hour “final, final offer.”
Those same sources also expect six of the other eight MLB teams tied to Main Street will similarly leave — the Brewers, Reds, Royals, Tigers, Angels and Marlins — and that the Braves are considering an exit, as well.
https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/01/07/sources-main-street-hints-at-talks-with-second-bidder/
I’m over the television broadcast drama; the games will be on some TV channel every year and also the money from it won’t what it used to be.
as they race to the bottom, the MLB will be the default buyer, and there’s nothing wrong with how teams like the DBacks broadcast now.
It’s not just about watching the games – sure they will be on tv or streaming somewhere. You will get to watch and won’t have to listen on the radio.
The bigger issue is the lack of money coming in which (1) lowers budgets for investment into free agents and (2) lowers the value of the franchise which makes it less likely that Arte will sell. The ripple effect is bigger that being able to access a television feed.
Understand and agree- that was point #2 but that I can’t worry about either.
K-shaped economy in baseball too.
The main issue is that those new broadcast partners, or the team streaming themselves, will show how valuable a team’s viewing audience ACTUALLY is. A team like the Angels is going to get a lot less money per year and we will continue to be what we were pre-Arte. A second rate team on the fringes of a large market.
That’s not horrible. We’ll still have some money and if we’re well run we can totally compete to win. But the days of demanding ownership go out and sign an ace pitcher and a big bat in a single winter are likely over for good. The Dodgers, Cubs, Red Sox and Yankees will be able to buy a lot of post season time. None of my nieces and nephews give a shit about baseball. I’ll watch more MMA.
It’s a great plan. No need for a salary cap here.
Like you stated above, I hope they figure s tv deal out before spring training. I enjoy watching the prospects play, this is the most time I get to see them.
Appears another player involving the name Wade was discussed at the family fun day at the Minasian’s household during a game of Cornhole. But let’s not confuse Lamont “Sanford” Wade with The Meck.
The 2026 outfield is now set.
The outfield is now set. Gulp.
I liked the 1965 to 1970 hats best, though I wore my 1971 model Angels cap to the gym yesterday. Last time I was traveling outside of US I had my Angels cap on and a guy had a Montreal Expos cap on, we agreed the Expos fans probably got screwed over more than Angels fans.
The 1971 would top my list. To this day when I print a small a, it’s an a, not the more familiar type we were taught to write. I really do like them all, but the current iteration may be my least favorite. My pictures from London and Paris in 2022 were all taken with the City Connect that had just come out. Right now, I own almost half of the caps.
Ahh..1971. After the success of 1970, 1971 reared its ugly head. Tony C eyesight diminished and he retired after striking out 6 times in the 1-0 20 inning loss in Oakland. Vida Blue and Rudy May were spectacular in that game. Alex Johnson malcontent, making the cover of Sports Illustrated as “The Fallen Angel” etc….However, great pitching staff.
Good ol’ AJ. Was he the Halo OF who should position himself against the hitters in accordance with the shade from the light towers or was that George Hendricks?
Good ole ‘71!
I see the old hats and sometimes this pops in my head. I knew all the words. LOL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izKr48oPCcU
Programs 25 cents. Anyone know what they now charge?
I love that tune, such memories!
I remember listening to this on KMPC as the games came on the radio. Thanks for the posting.
Dick Enberg! And Drysdale.
I always liked the jazzier all brass version they used on KMPC. Digressing slightly, I like the 1971 small a cap best, but I’m a cranky old geezer.
If any of you like vinyl records and want the perfect addition for your man cave. Here’s what I found on eBay. https://www.ebay.com/itm/146062491855?_skw=california+angels+a-ok&itmmeta=01KEF58HWRRTFXGQP770TEEVMD&hash=item220200c0cf:g:AQ4AAOSwvX1mOTF3&itmprp=enc%3AAQAKAAAA8FkggFvd1GGDu0w3yXCmi1f6HY6qSQmSwRyoeYF16cwsng9OuJDSf%2B%2FuKcixva708vHlsUuN1Gxc1ZxsPcHpbb6eYAeJqQ5XWJHEcMVuZaOrN6aA5Ly4VLO7xK7qHcQrEQsmqHzYHoTW9lg6ZhSoC6elfb5IAlPChaM38A0Gshc8NWG3SJGsi1%2BOnS52V8NPC4uNRMHMy4ErFf3MxFp7Xg8aV5bqO11cru1HbLVJ4Ne9xJYIcPZPSxt44Clc09cFMkoWnmtZ%2FxcosAsOZnV%2B%2B5aRnbEWwF%2BHlOAdPhsZpIylWWJcsdZR%2BRUlJU7FZXlA1A%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8ieouXzZg
I like it, but not for $50.
Probably will be worth a lot more someday. Someday. Past my lifetime. LOL
I wear my ’93-’96 hat by far the most. I like that the font isn’t as pointy or thick as the earlier years, and it keeps it simple while still referencing CA. Plus the blue brings out my eyes.
I’d say the current ones are my second preference. So maybe I’m just not into the early versions.
It’s very Angels, those hats. Pretty much all the same thing. Then Disney came along and did the Dick Wing and periwinkle to us. Then we got “wild” and switched to red. Getting wild that one time nearly broke the Angels minds. So they’ve just left it at that for EVER.
I like all the hats from before Disney. The 1995 stuff was actually pretty cool. But the rest of the hats were just kinda “mashed potatoes good”. Thank God for all the colorway redesigns that have happened with New Era the last ten years or so. Otherwise I’d never really wear Angels gear. I own about 12 Angels hats. All the logos accept the dick wing, plus one with the sleeve patch from the 80s. None of them are the official team colors. I do have a city connect hat though, that’s pretty cool.
It’s very “Angels” to just keep selling us the same red on red crap for 23 years.
I’d love the current design for the A on a hat with the navy/red colors.
Honestly, if they want to sell a bunch of shit, they should ditch the red all together and go BLUE. Just not Dodger blue. Dark navy, light baby blue, a little yellow and white. Like UNC and UCLA…. and in all honesty the Yankees. Have a black variant too.
Like this with some gold/light blue…