For the first time in a few years, the Los Angeles Angels are positioning themselves to be competitive this season.
The team has their deepest lineup in years, with a core group of players that have proven themselves at the big-league level.
On top of that, their projected starting rotation has shown potential of being a playoff caliber group.
.@baseballpro has announced their 2021 standings predictions. 👀
Thoughts? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/FqaFEdhNBk
— MLB (@MLB) February 11, 2021
With all of this, can they make it to the playoffs?
Projections suggest that they may have a good chance.
Here is an in-depth look at the Angels roster and their current standing against other teams in the American League West.
Angels Roster
Heading into 2021, the Angels have a solid group of proven MLB talent.
Of course, everyone knows about Mike Trout, who is the best player in the league today.
Mike Trout just hit a 524-foot home run. pic.twitter.com/TIuNJYrsOD
— Joe Giglio (@JoeGiglioSports) May 3, 2018
Along with him, last offseason signee Anthony Rendon put together a solid campaign in the COVID-shortened 2020 season.
In 52 games, Rendon hit nine home runs with a .286 average.
However, he has proven himself as a yearly MVP contender and one of the best third baseman in the MLB.
The Angels also have two-way star Shoehei Ohtani, giving their lineup a left-handed power presence.
Outside of those big names, the team has solid contributors like David Fletcher, Justin Upton, Dexter Fowler and Jose Iglesias to help round out the lineup.
They provide the team with depth in their lineup.
The Angels also have an influx of young offensive talent coming, with Jo Adell having his MLB debut last season and Brandon Marsh approaching the majors.
you: ugh, what do I do now that there’s no basebal-
Jo Adell: ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED??? pic.twitter.com/Tut8Yc7zRn
— Céspedes Family BBQ (@CespedesBBQ) November 2, 2019
Look for each of them to also be consistent contributors this season.
On the mound, the Angels will rely on a group of starters to perform in 2021.
Dylan Bundy will look to build off a solid 2020 season, while the additions of Alex Cobb and Jose Quintana aim to strengthen their rotation.
CG, 10 Ks.
Dylan Bundy's having a bounceback season. 🔥
(MLB x @ATT) pic.twitter.com/cp2hhoBSYS
— MLB (@MLB) August 6, 2020
Much of their success depends on how well this rotation holds up.
However, the group has the potential to become a solid and average rotation in the A.L.
Comparing The Competition
When looking at the A.L. West, it is clear that the division is in a downswing.
The Houston Astros have started losing pieces of their dynasty after star outfielder George Springer left in free agency.
While they will be the biggest threat to the Angels, they won’t be as dominant in past seasons.
The Oakland Athletics are another team who took some hits this free agency.
They lost star closer Liam Hendricks and shortstop Marcus Semien to free agency.
There are also rumors surrounding the team’s superstar third baseman, Matt Chapman.
In typical A’s fashion, the team is looking to retool as their core talent begins to command larger contracts.
The Seattle Mariners and Texas Rangers both make up the bottom of the division.
Each franchise has fallen on struggles the last couple of seasons as they are in the midst of rebuilds.
This opens the door for the Angels, who will be playing the bulk of their games against weaker competition.
The most recent PECOTA projections are…. interesting.
It has the #Angels finishing 2nd in the AL West and with the first WC spot. pic.twitter.com/AA58GA1OXj
— Jared Tims (@Jared_Tims) February 9, 2021
While winning the division over the Astros will be tough, they are squarely in a spot to make the Wild Card.
This is especially true if the MLB keeps the expanded postseason for next year.
It should be an exciting year for Angels fans, as the franchise hasn’t made a playoff appearance since 2014.
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