The Los Angeles Angels are facing some early challenges as they prepare to kick off the 2026 season. Grayson Rodriguez, their promising right-hander, will begin the year on the injured list. After missing the entire 2025 season due to injury, Rodriguez was set to make his comeback but has been sidelined again with arm soreness, described by Manager Kurt Suzuki as a "dead arm."
Rodriguez, acquired from the Orioles in exchange for outfielder Taylor Ward last November, has been taking it slow. Although he played some light catch at Angel Stadium, he hasn't returned to full bullpen sessions. The Angels are cautious, and there's no clear timeline for his return yet.
This isn't the first time Rodriguez has faced setbacks. After being a first-round pick by the Orioles in 2018, he showed immense potential, even making a playoff start as a rookie in 2023. In 2024, he was on the brink of a breakout season with a 3.86 ERA and 130 strikeouts over 116 2/3 innings before injuries hit.
With Rodriguez out, the Angels are adjusting their rotation. Jack Kochanowicz and Ryan Johnson are stepping in as the No. 4 and 5 starters, while Walbert Urena joins as a long reliever.
This shuffle leaves questions about Alek Manoah, the former All-Star who also missed 2025. Manoah had a tough spring training and now faces a fingernail issue.
Depending on his recovery, he might start on the injured list or head to Triple-A, given he has minor-league options available.
As the Angels gear up to open their season in Houston, they'll need to navigate these early pitching challenges. The team is hopeful that once Rodriguez and Manoah are back to full strength, their rotation will be a force to reckon with.