As spring training kicked off, the buzz around the Los Angeles Angels was all about Grayson Rodriguez and Alek Manoah rounding out their starting rotation. But neither has quite lived up to the hype, leaving the door ajar for a surprising contender: Sam Aldegheri.
Aldegheri, currently showcasing his skills with Team Italy in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, has been making waves with his impressive performance:
- 4.2 innings pitched
- 1 hit allowed
- 0 runs
- 2 walks
- 8 strikeouts
He reached the 65-pitch limit, but not before turning heads with his dominant display.
Initially, the Angels had seemingly decided Aldegheri's fate, optioning him to Triple-A during the first wave of spring training cuts. However, his standout performance in the WBC might just have them rethinking that decision.
Aldegheri’s WBC success could be a game-changer for the Angels, especially when compared to what Rodriguez and Manoah have shown so far. Rodriguez, once a rising star with the Baltimore Orioles, has struggled since injuries derailed his 2024 season.
This spring, he’s allowed seven runs on six hits and six walks over eight innings. The Angels might not rush to judgment on Rodriguez, but the results aren't exactly promising.
Manoah, on the other hand, started strong with two scoreless outings. Yet, the underlying stats suggested those performances might not hold up, and indeed, he faltered by allowing five runs on three hits and five walks in his latest start.
The Angels are at a crossroads. While Manoah’s initial outings seemed promising, the reality is that Aldegheri’s development could be more crucial for the team's future.
In a season focused on building a solid foundation, giving Aldegheri a shot at the rotation seems not only logical but necessary. His potential impact far outweighs any fleeting success Manoah might offer.
As the Angels look ahead, Aldegheri’s rise could be the spark they need, making him a key figure to watch as the season unfolds.