Angels Sign Yusei Kikuchi Amid Active Offseason

The Los Angeles Angels have continued their active offseason by signing left-handed pitcher Yusei Kikuchi to a three-year, $63 million contract. Kikuchi, who was ranked as a top free agent this offseason, had a notable performance following a mid-season trade to the Houston Astros, posting a 2.70 ERA in 10 starts. The Angels, seeking to end their playoff drought that dates back to 2014, have also acquired other key players including Jorge Soler and Travis d'Arnaud. Kikuchi's signing comes as the team aims to rebuild after a disappointing 2024 season, where they finished last in the AL West with a 63-99 record. The deal highlights Kikuchi's durability and improved performance, particularly his increased reliance on a more effective slider. This offseason, the Angels have been one of the most aggressive teams in MLB, as they aim to overcome the loss of Shohei Ohtani to the Dodgers.