Introduction to the Angels’ Missed Opportunity
The Angels are experiencing a brutal October, with their postseason drought extending to 11 years. The team has just hired its fourth manager in five years, and the new manager has been given a one-year contract, making him a lame duck before he even manages a game. Former Angel Kevin Pillar has stated that the team is "very, very far behind" in terms of clubhouse facilities and amenities, which can be a significant factor in attracting players.
The Angels’ Failure to Develop Pitching and Attract Key Players
The Angels have failed to develop pitching and have based their rebuilding strategy on drafting polished college players and rushing them to the major leagues. However, they passed on rookie Trey Yesavage, who was drafted by the Blue Jays and is now starting in the World Series. The Angels also passed on a $700-million, heavily-deferred deal offered by Shohei Ohtani, who ultimately signed with the Dodgers.
The Missed Opportunity to Sign Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the son of the only player who wears an Angels cap in the Hall of Fame, is currently playing for the Blue Jays and leading the team in the postseason. Guerrero Jr. has stated that he never received an offer from the Angels, despite his father’s history with the team. The Angels had signed Guerrero’s father, Vladimir Guerrero, in the winter of 2003-04, and Guerrero Jr. had spent time in the Angels’ clubhouse as a child.
Guerrero Jr.’s Memories of the Angels’ Clubhouse
Guerrero Jr. has fond memories of his time in the Angels’ clubhouse, where he would often play with the children of coach Dino Ebel. Ebel, who is now a coach with the Dodgers, used to hit fly balls to Guerrero Jr. before games, and the two remain close. Guerrero Jr. has also spoken highly of his experiences watching his father play for the Angels and learning from him.
The Difference Between Guerrero Jr. and His Father
Toronto pitcher Max Scherzer has noted that the main difference between Guerrero Jr. and his father is their approach to pitching. While Guerrero Sr. was known for swinging at almost every pitch, Guerrero Jr. is more selective. However, both players are known for their power and ability to hit the ball out of the park.
The Angels’ Regrettable Decision Not to Sign Guerrero Jr.
The Angels did not make an offer to Guerrero Jr. as a teenager because they had no reasonable chance to sign him, due to penalties incurred from signing infielder Roberto Baldoquin in 2015. The Angels had spent $14 million in a signing bonus and tax penalties to sign Baldoquin, who was compared to fellow Cuban prospect Yoan Moncada at the time. However, Baldoquin never made it to the majors, and the Angels were restricted to offering no more than a $300,000 bonus to any other international prospects that year. Guerrero Jr. ultimately signed with the Blue Jays for $3.9 million.
The Consequences of the Angels’ Decision
The Angels’ decision not to sign Guerrero Jr. has had significant consequences for the team. The team has not had a winning record since 2015, and the World Series will showcase one of the main reasons why. Guerrero Jr. is a superstar player who could have made a significant impact on the Angels’ lineup.
Conclusion
The Angels’ failure to sign Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is a regrettable decision that has had significant consequences for the team. The team’s inability to develop pitching and attract key players has led to a decade of losing, and the World Series will serve as a reminder of what could have been. The Angels must learn from their mistakes and work to rebuild their team and attract top talent in the future.
FAQs
- Q: Why did the Angels not make an offer to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. as a teenager?
A: The Angels did not make an offer to Guerrero Jr. because they had no reasonable chance to sign him, due to penalties incurred from signing infielder Roberto Baldoquin in 2015. - Q: How much did the Angels spend to sign Roberto Baldoquin in 2015?
A: The Angels spent $14 million in a signing bonus and tax penalties to sign Baldoquin. - Q: How much did Vladimir Guerrero Jr. sign for with the Blue Jays in 2015?
A: Guerrero Jr. signed with the Blue Jays for $3.9 million in 2015. - Q: What is the main difference between Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and his father, according to Max Scherzer?
A: The main difference between Guerrero Jr. and his father is their approach to pitching, with Guerrero Jr. being more selective than his father.
