The recent decision by the Los Angeles Angels to outright Alek Manoah to Triple-A Salt Lake has sparked a lot of discussion and speculation. Manoah, once a borderline ace, has been struggling to regain his former glory. The Angels' move raises several questions about their strategy and Manoah's future.
A Bet Gone Wrong
The Angels' decision to sign Manoah this offseason was a risky move. They were banking on a bounceback from a player who had previously posted a 2.24 ERA and finished third in the Cy Young voting in 2022. However, since then, Manoah's performance has been a far cry from his previous form. He posted a 5.87 ERA in 2023 and has been plagued by shoulder and elbow issues, ultimately requiring Tommy John surgery. This surgery has kept him out of the game for extended periods, with only five big league starts in 2024 and none in 2025.
A Free Agent's Dilemma
Manoah's situation is further complicated by his status as a free agent. While he has the right to reject an outright assignment and enter free agency, he is unlikely to do so. The Angels signed him to a deal worth $1.95MM, and with roughly $1.35MM left to be paid out, it's highly probable that he will accept his assignment and continue his career in the minors. This decision could impact his future earnings and opportunities, as he may not be able to negotiate a better deal if his performance remains inconsistent.
A Rotation in Crisis
The Angels' rotation is currently in a state of flux. With Yusei Kikuchi on the IL, the team is relying on a group of young pitchers, including José Soriano, Reid Detmers, and Grayson Rodriguez. The addition of Manoah in the minors could provide an opportunity for him to regain his form and potentially work his way back into the major league rotation. However, the Angels also have George Klassen, Caden Dana, and Sam Aldegheri on the 40-man roster, but they are currently on optional assignment. This means that Manoah would have to pitch his way back into the major league rotation, which is no easy feat.
The Way Forward
The Angels' decision to outright Manoah to Triple-A is a clear indication that they are not giving up on him just yet. However, it also highlights the challenges they face in managing a rotation that is currently in a state of flux. Manoah's future with the team remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: he will need to perform consistently and regain his form if he wants to secure a long-term role in the Angels' rotation.
