The Los Angeles Angels made a bold move at the MLB trade deadline by acquiring two pitchers from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for two prospects. The centerpiece of the trade is Lucas Giolito, who is expected to be the best pitcher to change teams this month.
Giolito, a former first-rounder, was traded to the White Sox from the Washington Nationals in 2016. Since then, he has made significant improvements to his game, including revamping his arm action and developing a changeup that has become his best offspeed pitch. While he has abandoned his curveball, he has added a slider to his repertoire. Standing at 6-foot-6, Giolito’s extension on his pitches gives him an advantage on the mound. He has proven to be durable since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2012. Although he is considered a mid-rotation starter, a move to a pitcher-friendly park could enhance his performance.
In addition to Giolito, the Angels also acquired Reynaldo López in the trade. López was part of the Adam Eaton deal with Giolito and current Texas Rangers starter Dane Dunning. Initially seen as having reliever risk due to his delivery and lack of quality secondaries, López has thrived since being moved to the bullpen by the White Sox. He has been effective against left-handed hitters and has become a reliable high-leverage option for the Angels.
On the other side of the trade, the White Sox received two prospects from the Angels. One of them is catcher Edgar Quero, who had an impressive season in 2022 as a 19-year-old in Low A. However, Quero has struggled this year after being skipped over High A. While he has shown good plate discipline with more walks than strikeouts, he needs to improve his contact quality and defensive skills. With proper development, Quero has the potential to become an above-average regular in the future.
The second prospect in the trade is Ky Bush, the Angels’ second-round pick in 2021. After a solid debut season in Double A last year, Bush struggled this year after returning from injuries. He has shown a decrease in velocity since college but possesses a solid changeup and curveball. Improving his control and adjusting his pitch selection against left-handed hitters could help him regain his form.
Critics argue that the Angels missed an opportunity to trade Shohei Ohtani last winter when they could have received a significant return. However, the team’s decision to go all-in this season is understandable. With their best chance to make the playoffs since signing Ohtani, the Angels hope that their aggressive moves will convince him to re-sign with the team. Additionally, a playoff appearance would be a significant achievement for a franchise that has wasted the prime years of two of the greatest players in MLB history.
Overall, the trade between the Angels and White Sox makes sense for both teams. While the White Sox may have the upper hand on paper, with Quero expected to have a solid career as a big leaguer, the Angels are focused on their immediate goal of making the playoffs. Only time will tell if this bold move pays off for the Angels and if they can secure a playoff series victory.
(Photo of Lucas Giolito: Joe Nicholson / USA Today)