Angels Activate Robert Stephenson, Designate Tim Anderson for Assignment

The Los Angeles Angels have activated reliever Robert Stephenson from the injured list after he missed last season due to elbow surgery, adding strength to a bullpen struggling with a major league-worst 6.31 ERA. Stephenson, who had a strong 2023 season with the Tampa Bay Rays, is expected to gradually return to high-leverage roles under manager Ron Washington. Concurrently, the Angels designated two-time All-Star infielder Tim Anderson for assignment after a disappointing start to the season, batting .205 in 31 games. To accommodate Stephenson and infielder Scott Kingery, the team also optioned lefty Jake Eder to Triple-A and designated catcher Chuckie Robinson for assignment. Anderson, who previously played for the Chicago White Sox and Miami Marlins, may attract interest from other teams via waivers. These roster moves were made ahead of a game against the New York Yankees, signaling a shift in the Angels' lineup and bullpen strategy.