Yusei Kikuchi Joins Los Angeles Angels in Striking Offseason Move
The Los Angeles Angels have taken a significant step in bolstering their pitching rotation by signing veteran left-handed pitcher Yusei Kikuchi to a three-year, $63 million free-agent contract. The acquisition of the 33-year-old Kikuchi underscores the Angels' intent to revamp their roster following a dismal 2024 season, in which they recorded a franchise-worst 99 losses.
The Angeles' decision to bring Kikuchi on board follows an intriguing 2024 season for the pitcher, who split his time between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Houston Astros. Over the course of 32 starts, Kikuchi posted a 4.05 ERA and a 3.46 FIP, while amassing an impressive 206 strikeouts against just 44 unintentional walks in 175 2/3 innings. It was during his stint with the Astros, however, where Kikuchi seemed to really find his groove, notching a remarkable 2.70 ERA and a 147 ERA+ across 10 starts.
Kikuchi's performance with the Astros may have provided a glimpse into the potential that scouts have long raved about. Despite apprehensions from some critics who questioned the Astros' decision to give up some of their top prospects for Kikuchi at the trade deadline—described as "a question of execution" more than talent—Kikuchi utilized the opportunity to showcase the exceptional arsenal that has long defined his reputation. By strategically reducing his fastball and curve usage in favor of a slider that he deployed in over 37% of his pitches, Kikuchi achieved a stellar 5.43 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
The Angels' focus this offseason appears to be not just on the present, but also on establishing a foundation for the future. In addition to Kikuchi, the team has added power-hitting outfielder Jorge Soler, reliable catcher Travis d'Arnaud, veteran pitcher Kyle Hendricks, and infielder Kevin Newman. These acquisitions complement a budding core of young talent, including Logan O'Hoppe and Zach Neto, who are expected to be pivotal in steering the Angels back towards winning ways.
Yusei Kikuchi's addition to the team comes at a critical juncture in his career. With a career 91 OPS+ over six Major League Baseball seasons, the lefty has retooled his pitching approach, looking to bounce back from inconsistencies that plagued earlier parts of his career. "Logic dictates teams are unlikely to put greater weight in 10 starts than the preceding 144," as one analyst noted when discussing Kikuchi's progression. "Still, it only takes one True Believer for Kikuchi to land a richer than expected deal."
The Angels have clearly identified themselves as that 'True Believer.' By bringing aboard a pitcher of Kikuchi's caliber, the front office is signalling its commitment to a sharper competitive edge. With significant changes being made both on the mound and at bat, Los Angeles is preparing to lift itself from the shadow of last season's record-breaking losses.
The forthcoming season will test whether Kikuchi can translate his late 2024 resurgence into consistent performances suitable for the expectations that accompany such a high-profile contract. For the Angels, much rides on whether their newly crafted ensemble can gel into a unit that restores the team's fortunes. As they head into spring training, the Angels—and their fans—will be hoping that the addition of Kikuchi and other key players marks the start of a new era at Angel Stadium.