The Los Angeles Angels have struck a significant deal in the MLB free agency market, securing right-hander Robert Stephenson on a three-year, $33 million contract, sources have revealed. This deal also includes a conditional option that could be activated if Stephenson experiences a specific duration of elbow injury-related absence. While the agreement is pending a successful physical examination on Monday, it stands as a significant move for the Angels, bringing them a top-tier reliever.
The contract’s conditional option stipulates that if Stephenson’s elbow issues require Tommy John surgery or result in an extended absence, the Angels would have the choice to exercise a $2.5 million option for the 2027 season. Despite concerns about his elbow health, the Angels were willing to invest significantly in Stephenson’s contract, making him the second-highest-paid free-agent reliever this offseason, trailing only Josh Hader’s $95 million deal with the Houston Astros.
The Angels’ bullpen struggled during the previous season, finishing with a 4.88 ERA, which ranked among the worst in MLB. Aside from their incumbent closer Carlos Estevez, there were ample opportunities for improvement in the bullpen, making Stephenson a valuable addition. He joins a group of free-agent signings by the Angels that includes right-handed relievers Adam Cimber and Luis Garcia, as well as left-handed reliever Adam Kolarek.
Stephenson’s performance significantly improved after he was acquired by the Tampa Bay Rays from the Pittsburgh Pirates on June 2. During his four-month tenure with the Rays, he emerged as one of the league’s top relievers. Over 38⅓ innings, Stephenson struck out 60 batters while only walking eight, boasting an impressive 2.35 ERA across 42 games. This remarkable stretch marked a stark contrast to his previous performance, which had seen him struggle as a below-league-average pitcher.
With Stephenson on board, the Angels will look to him for assistance as they navigate the post-Shohei Ohtani era, following the superstar’s departure in free agency. Despite this significant loss, the Angels remain determined to be competitive under the leadership of new manager Ron Washington, especially with superstar Mike Trout set to return to the lineup.
Additionally, the Angels are exploring further options in free agency, considering the possibility of signing prominent players such as left-hander Blake Snell and first baseman/centerfielder Cody Bellinger. After finishing the 2023 season with a 73-89 record, the Angels recognize the need to bolster their roster to compete effectively in their competitive division, which includes strong teams like the reigning World Series champion Texas Rangers, the Astros, and the Seattle Mariners, all of whom have their sights set on the postseason.