Angels Place Long-Time Consistent Reliever On Waivers

The Los Angeles Angels have designated 32-year-old right-handed reliever Adam Cimber for assignment following a rough season. 

Cimber, who joined the Angels on a one-year, $1.65 million deal this offseason, has posted a disappointing 7.03 ERA over 24.1 innings in 2024. 

Despite improving his strikeout numbers and allowing fewer home runs, Cimber struggled with a career-high walk rate and recurring shoulder inflammation, which led to a 15-day stint on the injured list. 

His mechanical issues and injuries, including back problems, have significantly hindered his performance.

This roster move was necessary to make room for left-handed pitcher José Quijada, who is returning from the 60-day injured list following Tommy John surgery. 

Additionally, right-hander Jack Kochanowicz was optioned to Double-A Rocket City to accommodate Quijada on the active roster. 

Cimber's season included a brief resurgence in May, highlighted by striking out the side against the Pittsburgh Pirates, but his inconsistency ultimately led to the Angels' decision to DFA him.

Cimber, in his seventh MLB season, has a career record of 3.75 ERA over 323.3 innings with 244 strikeouts and seven saves. 

Before this season, Cimber had recorded an impressive 3.20 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, with 126 strikeouts across 174.1 innings and 185 appearances from 2020-2023.

The Angels now have seven days to trade Cimber or place him on outright or unconditional release waivers. 

If he clears outright waivers, Cimber, with over five years of MLB service time, can choose to become a free agent. Given his recent struggles and injury history, a trade seems unlikely, making his release the most probable outcome.

Photo Credit: Raymond Carlin III-USA TODAY Sports