Angels Overhaul 2025 Roster, Moving On from Key Players
The Angels are undergoing a full-scale remodel for 2025, wisely parting ways with much of the roster from their franchise-worst 2024 season. While some departures were bittersweet, others were a welcome relief for fans.
Who Won’t Be Returning to the Angels?
Mickey Moniak
Moniak was unexpectedly released during the Freeway Series, despite the Angels initially counting on him to help fill Mike Trout’s absence in center field. As a free agent, he should attract some interest—players like Manuel Margot found new teams quickly after hitting the market.
Though Moniak struggled with strikeouts, hitting left-handed pitching, and staying healthy, he remains a solid defender in center. He could find a role as a cost-effective fifth outfielder elsewhere.
José Suarez
Perry Minasian pulling off a trade that sent Suarez to the Braves in exchange for Ian Anderson felt like a miracle. Suarez had previously cleared waivers, meaning every team passed on adding him to their 40-man roster. However, Minasian’s connections with Atlanta helped make the deal happen, as the Braves seemingly wanted to give Anderson a fresh shot at returning to the majors after last pitching in 2022.
For Angels fans, moving on from Suarez is a relief. His highs were never particularly high, but his lows were brutal. The trade also solidifies a pitching staff featuring Anderson, Reid Detmers, Garrett McDaniels, and Ryan Johnson—players who are already better options than Suarez both now and moving forward.
Other Players Who May Have Played Their Last Game for the Angels
José Quijada & Ángel Perdomo
Both relievers must clear waivers and accept a minor league assignment to remain with the Angels. Quijada’s contract—just over $1 million—might make him an expensive waiver claim. His declining fastball velocity and reliance on his four-seamer (thrown nearly 90% of the time) could deter other teams. A return to the Angels on a minor league deal seems likely.
Perdomo, still recovering from Tommy John surgery, could improve as he gets more innings under his belt. He might get claimed, but if not, the Angels could evaluate him further at Triple-A Salt Lake.
J.D. Davis
Davis is headed to Triple-A but could be a sneaky trade piece for teams in need of infield depth. The question is whether the Angels would be willing to move him, given the uncertainty at third base. If they feel confident in their mix of Yoán Moncada, Luis Rengifo, Nicky Lopez, and possibly Kevin Newman or Christian Moore, Davis could be dealt for a useful return. While unlikely, it’s not off the table.
A Final Note on Chuckie Robinson
Ideally, this is the last time Angels fans see Chuckie Robinson in action—not because of his performance, but because it would mean Logan O’Hoppe and Travis d’Arnaud stayed healthy all season.
With these moves, the Angels are shaping a fresh roster for 2025, and fans can look forward to a new era on the field.
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