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Angels Re-Sign Veteran Pitcher Hunter Strickland

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. s-re-sign-veteran-pitcher-hunter-strickland.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 19:29 GMT by CBSSports.com
      Locales: California, Texas, Georgia, UNITED STATES

Anaheim, CA - February 16th, 2026 - The Los Angeles Angels have announced the re-signing of veteran right-handed pitcher Hunter Strickland to a minor league contract, with an invitation to major league spring training. This marks Strickland's third stint with the Angels organization, signaling a comfort level for both player and team as the 2026 season approaches. While the details of the contract remain undisclosed, the move clearly indicates the Angels are prioritizing bullpen depth and competitive experience as they navigate a potentially pivotal year.

Strickland's career has been defined by his ability to pitch in high-leverage situations, and while his 2024 season with the Chicago White Sox wasn't spectacular (a 4.33 ERA across 43 appearances), his past performance with the Angels - in 2017 and 2021 - likely played a significant role in this re-signing. He isn't a flashy name, but he's a known quantity, a seasoned professional capable of eating innings and providing a steady presence out of the pen.

The Angels' Bullpen: A Work in Progress

The Angels' bullpen has been a consistent area of concern in recent years. Following the 2025 season, several key relief pitchers either departed in free agency or were non-tendered, leaving a void that general manager Billy Eppler (or his successor, depending on front office changes) has been actively trying to fill. While promising young arms are developing within the farm system, relying solely on rookies during the crucial months of a season is a risky proposition.

Strickland provides a bridge to those younger players, offering experience and a calming influence, especially in pressure cooker situations. He represents a low-risk, potentially high-reward acquisition. If he performs well in spring training and demonstrates he can still command the strike zone, he'll almost certainly secure a spot on the opening day roster. If not, the Angels can part ways without significant financial repercussions.

Competition for a Spot

Strickland isn't walking into a guaranteed roster spot. The Angels have several other relievers vying for limited bullpen berths, including returning players and recent acquisitions. The spring training competition is expected to be fierce, with manager Ron Washington likely looking for pitchers who can consistently get outs and control their command. Key competitors will likely include promising prospects like Chase Silseth (who has bounced between the majors and minors) and established veterans acquired via trades or free agency.

Analysts are predicting that the Angels will likely carry at least seven, and potentially eight, relief pitchers on their opening day roster. This means Strickland will need to prove he can outperform several others to earn his place. His strengths lie in his slider and ability to induce ground balls, attributes that could be particularly valuable at Angel Stadium, where the spacious outfield can limit extra-base hits.

Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for the Angels' 2026 Season?

The signing of Hunter Strickland isn't a blockbuster move that will instantly transform the Angels into World Series contenders. However, it's a smart, strategic acquisition that addresses a clear need. It demonstrates a commitment to building a reliable and deep bullpen, which is crucial for any team hoping to compete in the American League West.

The Angels are under pressure to perform in 2026. After several seasons of rebuilding and underperformance, fans are eager to see a competitive team. While the focus rightfully remains on the development of young stars like Anthony Rendon and Mike Trout, the supporting cast - including the bullpen - needs to be solid. Strickland, if he can rediscover his form, could be an important piece of that puzzle.

The team's success in 2026 will depend on a combination of factors, but a dependable bullpen is undeniably one of them. The re-signing of Hunter Strickland is a step in the right direction, adding experience, depth, and a familiar face to the Angels' relief corps. The coming weeks will be critical as Strickland battles for a spot, and the Angels look to solidify their plans for the season ahead.