The Los Angeles Angels are navigating their options for the closer role this spring, and Ben Joyce is certainly turning heads. With his electric arm, Joyce has shown promise in camp, but the looming question is whether he can stay healthy.
Injuries have been a constant companion for Joyce ever since a significant growth spurt in high school unlocked his incredible velocity-along with some literal growing pains. His history with injuries is a concern for the Angels as they evaluate their bullpen options.
Joyce's journey took him to the University of Tennessee, where he pitched under head coach Tony Vitello, now leading the Giants. After missing his first year due to Tommy John surgery, Joyce returned with a vengeance, clocking pitches over 105 mph and boasting an impressive 2.23 ERA that season.
Drafted by the Angels in the third round of the 2022 MLB Draft, Joyce was seen as a potential game-changer with his elite fastball. However, the transition hasn't been smooth.
While he has shown flashes of brilliance, injuries have often kept him from reaching his full potential. His standout season came in 2024, posting a 2.08 ERA over 31 appearances, but last year, he was limited to just five games before undergoing shoulder surgery.
This spring, Joyce has a shot at the closer role, although Robert Stephenson might have the edge. Stephenson himself is no stranger to injuries, so seeing Joyce in the closer spot wouldn't be surprising. At the very least, Joyce is expected to be a key bullpen option, though there's always the worry of another stint on the injured list.
The injuries aren't his fault; they've been an unfortunate part of his career. It's almost as if the baseball gods are balancing his incredible talent with these setbacks.
2026 is a pivotal year for Joyce. If he can stay healthy and deliver consistently, the Angels could have one of the most formidable arms in the league. If not, the team will have to consider his future with the organization.