The Los Angeles Angels are making moves to bolster their pitching staff by signing left-hander Joey Lucchesi, according to Jon Heyman. Expected to join the Opening Day roster, this major league deal will necessitate a corresponding 40-man roster move. The Angels have some flexibility here, with Anthony Rendon being a potential candidate for the 60-day injured list, and they might also need to consider roster spots for Adam Frazier and Jeimer Candelario.
Lucchesi, who turns 33 in June, recently parted ways with the Giants, where he was on a minor league deal. Whether he opted out or was released, he's now headed to the Angels.
Known for his versatility, Lucchesi has spent much of his career as a starter or swingman, but in 2025, he transitioned to a full-time reliever. His repertoire includes a four-seamer and sinker both clocking in just under 93 mph, complemented by a low-80s splitter and a high-70s curveball.
Last season with the Giants, he pitched 38 1/3 innings over 38 appearances, posting a 3.76 ERA. While his 18.8% strikeout rate was below average, his 7.3% walk rate was solid, and he induced ground balls on 53% of balls in play.
The Giants had the option to keep Lucchesi for 2026 through arbitration, with a projected $2 million salary, but chose to non-tender him before re-signing him to a minor league deal worth $1.5 million at the major league level. His recent release opened the door for the Angels to step in.
This offseason, the Angels have been active in the free-agent market, signing pitchers like Kirby Yates, Jordan Romano, Drew Pomeranz, and Brent Suter, none of whom can be optioned to the minors. With Chase Silseth also out of options, the Angels face some decisions.
Prospects like Ryan Zeferjahn, Sam Bachman, and Walbert Ureña are in the mix for Opening Day spots, but they can be optioned if needed. Moving one of them to the minors or making room by adjusting Silseth’s status could pave the way for Lucchesi’s addition to the roster.