angels Bolster Bullpen with Veteran Kirby Yates
The Los Angeles Angels have added a important piece to their bullpen, agreeing to a one-year contract with right-handed reliever kirby Yates.This move signals a clear intent to strengthen their late-game options heading into the 2026 season.
Yates, 38, brings a wealth of experience to anaheim, having pitched for seven different major league teams over 11 seasons. However, his moast recent stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers wasn’t his strongest, as he posted a 5.23 ERA across 50 appearances and wasn’t part of their postseason roster.
But don’t let that recent performance fool you. This signing is particularly intriguing because of a familiar face: pitching coach Mike Maddux.
A Proven Track Record & Familiarity
you might remember Yates’ dominant 2024 season with the Texas Rangers, where he flourished under Maddux’s guidance. He recorded a stellar 1.17 ERA and a remarkable 0.83 WHIP, earning his second All-Star selection. This reunion is expected to unlock that same level of performance.
Here’s a speedy look at Yates’ career highlights:
* Total Innings Pitched: 452.3
* Career ERA: 3.36
* Strikeouts: 623
* Saves: 41 (led the majors in 2019 with the San Diego Padres)
This isn’t the Angels’ first bullpen addition this offseason. They’ve already secured one-year deals with fellow veterans Jordan Romano and Drew Pomeranz, demonstrating a commitment to fortifying this area of the team.
What This Means for the angels
Essentially, the Angels are building a reliable bridge to closer Carlos Estévez. Yates, Romano, and Pomeranz will provide crucial depth and versatility, allowing manager Phil Nevin to navigate late-game situations with more confidence.
Furthermore, Yates’ ability to generate strikeouts – averaging 12.4 per nine innings in his best seasons – is a valuable asset. You can expect him to be utilized in high-leverage spots when called upon.
Ultimately, this signing is a smart move for the Angels. They’re adding a proven reliever with a track record of success, and reuniting him with a pitching coach who clearly knows how to get the best out of him. It’s a recipe for potential success, and a positive sign for Angels fans looking ahead to the 2026 season.
