The Los Angeles Angels have struggled to maintain their strong start to the season. Following a loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday, the Angels are now 11-12 and facing significant issues. Heading into the game, Los Angeles had the third-worst bullpen in MLB with a concerning 5.45 ERA. Additional stats, such as a 1.62 WHIP and the worst league batting average allowed at .283, further emphasize the team’s need for bullpen reinforcements. To address this, the Angels have turned to a former World Series champion for help.
On Wednesday, Los Angeles announced they had signed veteran relief pitcher Carl Edwards Jr., formerly of the Chicago Cubs. Edwards, who played a key role in the Cubs’ 2016 World Series victory, shared his thoughts with reporters about his experience. “Something called championship DNA,” he said, noting the importance of leadership and expectations in the clubhouse. Edwards was part of the Cubs’ historic 2016 championship win, ending their 108-year title drought.
With 280 innings pitched over his 11-year MLB career, Edwards has posted a solid 3.54 ERA, a 1.211 WHIP, and a 120 ERA+. His best season came in 2017 with Chicago, where he finished with a 2.98 ERA, 94 strikeouts, and 1.6 bWAR in 73 appearances. Over the past five years, Edwards has bounced between five teams, including the Seattle Mariners, Atlanta Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, Washington Nationals, and San Diego Padres. Now, the South Carolina native aims to bring veteran leadership to a struggling Los Angeles bullpen in hopes of improving the team’s fortunes.