Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington expressed that the team needs reinforcements from the front office following news that reliever Ben Joyce will miss the rest of the season due to shoulder surgery.
Joyce had a standout 2.08 ERA in 2024, the best among Angels pitchers with at least 10 innings. Meanwhile, the team’s bullpen has struggled significantly, ranking last in MLB with a 6.97 ERA.
“I hope the front office continues to explore options and bring in some support,” Washington told The Orange County Register. “We’re expecting (Robert) Stephenson back later this year, but it’d be great to add more help.”
Stephenson, recovering from Tommy John surgery performed on May 1, 2024, began his rehab assignment Tuesday, giving up one run on two hits in an inning. He last pitched in the majors in 2023 with the Pirates and Rays, posting a 3.10 ERA over 52.1 innings. He joined the Angels in January 2024 on a three-year, $33 million deal.
In addition to Stephenson, the Angels are also awaiting the returns of All-Star outfielder Mike Trout and right-hander Sam Bachman. Trout, who went on the 10-day injured list May 1 with a bone bruise in his surgically repaired left knee, recently resumed light on-field activity by playing catch.
Bachman, sidelined since 2023, has made three scoreless rehab outings so far this season.
The Angels are hoping these key players will help them bounce back to their early-season performance, as they currently sit at the bottom of the AL West, six games behind the division-leading Seattle Mariners.
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