MLB Rumors: LA Angels Interested In Former 2-Time All-Star Free Agent

The Los Angeles Angels have one focus this season: Do everything they can to get into playoff contention to prove to Shohei Ohtani that they're worthy of his consideration for staying as a free agent. To that end, they're looking to upgrade the bullpen with an impact left-hander. 

Zack Britton is squarely on their radar, according to reports from Bob Nightengale of USA Today. The only thing holding the two sides back at this point, is price. Nightengale says the Angels are balking at Britton's alleged $9M dollar price point. (Surely, refusing to pay to improve the team won't impress Ohtani.)

Britton, however, is a high-risk, high-reward proposition. He's missed most of the last two seasons due to an elbow injury that led to Tommy John surgery. And at age 35, a comeback to his former effectiveness is no guarantee. 

He pitched just 18 innings in 2021 as elbow problems limited his effectiveness, then sat out all of 2022 except for two-thirds of an inning in September for the New York Yankees.

But if he's 'right', he can be a tremendous arm coming out of the 'pen. From 2014 to 2020, Britton compiled a 1.84 ERA for the Baltimore Orioles and New York Yankees, compiling 153 saves.

Britton recently held a throwing session for major league teams who are interested to see where he's at. The New York Mets have expressed interest, as his old Orioles manager Buck Showalter is at the helm of the Mets now. 

It remains to be seen if the Angels can strike a deal that fits their "budget."

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports