Surprising Team Has Had "Recent Dialogue" & Is Aggresively Pursuing Blake Snell

The Los Angeles Angels are actively engaged in discussions with free agent Blake Snell, a development that could significantly impact their pitching roster.

Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports that the Angels have explored a potential contract with Snell.

Notably, the Angels are not waiting on Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto to make a team decision, as they are not seen as strong contenders for his signing.

Source: The Angels have had recent dialogue with Blake Snell, the reigning NL Cy Young Award winner.

Of note: Since the Angels aren't viewed as a strong candidate to sign Yamamoto, they don't need to wait on Yamamoto's choice to act in the pitching market. @MLB @MLBNetwork

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 19, 2023

This suggests a more focused interest in securing Snell's services​.

Blake Snell, at 31 years old, boasts an impressive resume, including two Cy Young awards and two ERA titles.

He is coming off a stellar season with the San Diego Padres, where he won the National League Cy Young in 2023, recording a 2.25 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 234 strikeouts in 180 innings.

While durability has been a concern in the past, Snell's increase in innings from 128 in 2022 to nearly a career high last season indicates his capability to be a leading figure in a rotation​​.

The #Angels have had “recent dialogue” with free-agent LHP Blake Snell, per @jonmorosi pic.twitter.com/iQvS6fpb1H

— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) December 19, 2023

The Angels' interest in Snell comes in the wake of losing Shohei Ohtani to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

This departure leaves a significant void in their roster, particularly after failing to reach the postseason for the ninth consecutive year.

Adding a player of Snell's caliber could help the Angels remain competitive in the American League West, especially given the presence of star player Mike Trout​. Photo Credit: Ray Acevedo-USA TODAY Sports