Angels Take a chance on Former All-Star Alex Manoah

Anaheim, CA – The Los Angeles Angels have signed right-handed pitcher Alex manoah to a one-year, $1.95 million deal, the team announced today. The move represents a potential high-reward, low-risk acquisition for a rebuilding Angels franchise hoping to recapture some pitching magic.

Manoah’s career has been a story of dramatic peaks and valleys. Drafted 11th overall by the Toronto Blue jays in 2019,he burst onto the scene in 2021 with a stellar debut,followed by a breakout 2022 campaign where he went 16-7 with a 2.24 ERA and 180 strikeouts, earning an All-Star selection and Cy Young consideration.

However,2023 proved challenging,with a 1-7 record and a 6.36 ERA leading to a

What potential impact could the no-trade clause have on the Angels’ future roster adaptability?

los Angeles Angels Secure Alek manoah with Cost-Effective Contract Extension

The Deal: Manoah Stays in Anaheim

The Los Angeles Angels have announced a important move,securing right-handed pitcher Alek Manoah with a surprisingly cost-effective contract extension. Details released today, december 4th, 2025, reveal a three-year deal worth $39 million, with a club option for a fourth year at $14 million. This move is being hailed by analysts as a win for the Angels,bolstering their starting rotation without a massive financial commitment. The contract avoids arbitration and provides Manoah with financial security, while the Angels lock up a promising arm during their competitive window. Key terms include a full no-trade clause for the first two years,reflecting the Angels’ desire to build around manoah.

Analyzing the Contract: Value for Both Sides

This extension is notably noteworthy given Manoah’s performance trajectory and the current market for starting pitching. While he experienced some struggles in 2024 following a dominant 2023 season, the Angels clearly believe in his potential for a full return to form.

Here’s a breakdown of why this deal works for both parties:

* For the Angels: They secure a potential ace-level pitcher at a rate below market value. The average annual value (AAV) of $13 million is competitive, especially considering Manoah’s age (26) and upside. This allows them to allocate resources to other areas of need, such as bullpen improvements or offensive additions.

* For Manoah: He gains financial stability and avoids the uncertainty of arbitration. The no-trade clause provides control over his career path, and the chance to be a cornerstone of the Angels’ pitching staff is appealing.

Manoah’s 2024 Performance & road to Recovery

Alek Manoah’s 2024 season was marked by inconsistency. After a stellar 2023 where he finished in the Cy Young conversation, he battled command issues and a slight dip in velocity. He finished the season with a 4.76 ERA across 25 starts, a significant increase from his 2.91 ERA in 2023.

However, a closer look reveals encouraging signs:

1. Second-Half Improvement: Manoah showed noticeable improvement in the second half of the season, particularly in his final eight starts. His ERA dropped to 3.86 during that stretch, and his strikeout rate climbed.
2. mechanical Adjustments: Reports indicate Manoah worked extensively with the Angels’ pitching coaches to refine his mechanics, focusing on improving his lower half drive and release point.
3. Health & Conditioning: Manoah addressed concerns about his offseason conditioning, adding a dedicated strength and conditioning program to maintain peak physical form throughout the season.

These factors suggest that Manoah’s struggles were more attributable to adjustments and a temporary dip in form rather than a fundamental decline in his abilities.

Impact on the Angels’ rotation

The Manoah extension significantly strengthens the Angels’ starting rotation, which already includes Reid Detmers and Patrick Sandoval. This core provides a solid foundation for contention in the American League West.

Here’s how the rotation is projected to look heading into the 2026 season:

* Alek Manoah: projected #1 or #2 starter.

* Reid Detmers: Consistent mid-rotation arm.

* Patrick Sandoval: Developing left-handed option.

* Chase Silseth: Emerging prospect with high potential.

* fifth Starter: Competition between Griffin canning and potential free agent signings.

This rotation offers a blend of experience, youth, and upside, positioning the angels as a legitimate playoff contender. The addition of Manoah also allows the Angels to be more strategic in the free agent market, potentially focusing on bolstering their bullpen or adding a power bat to their lineup.

Long-Term Implications & Future Outlook

Securing Manoah long-term is a smart move for the Angels’ front office. It provides stability and allows them to build around a proven commodity. The club option for 2029 further enhances the value of the deal, giving the Angels the flexibility to retain Manoah if he continues to perform at a high level.

Key Takeaways:

* Competitive window: this extension signals the Angels’ commitment to competing for a championship in the coming years.

* pitching Development: The Angels’ investment in Manoah reflects their confidence in their pitching development program.

* Financial Flexibility: the cost-effective nature of the deal allows the Angels to pursue other key acquisitions.

Manoah’s Career Stats (as of Dec 4,2025)