Possible chaos looming in the Wild Card race, as the Los Angeles Angels take potential steps forward.
The Los Angeles Angels, boasting a star-studded roster on paper, find themselves **not considered a legitimate contender for the 2023 MLB playoffs**. Their overall performance metrics indicate below-average pitching and offensive statistics, which undermine their playoff chances.
At the All-Star break, the Angels have a **47-49 record**, 11.5 games behind in the divisional race in the American League. Their **run differential is negative (-62)**, scoring 418 runs but allowing 480, which suggests pitching deficiencies and inconsistency on both sides of the ball.
Advanced stats show a **low projected winning percentage (.437 by Pythagorean expectation)**, reinforcing the notion that their current record does not overstate their actual strength. Individual player statistics indicate issues with offensive consistency and pitching reliability, contributing to their overall struggles.
Taylor Ward currently leads the team with 21 home runs, while Christian Moore has shown flashes of brilliance, including a game-tying and game-winning home run against the Red Sox. However, these individual feats have not translated into consistent team success.
The Angels' **team OPS is .711**, ranking 16, and their **1.45 WHIP** is second to last in the league (just ahead of the Rockies). In terms of offensive categories, the Angels are 24 in batting average, 25 in hits, 26 in walks, 29 in both strikeouts and stolen bases.
Their pitching woes are further highlighted by their 22 saves, but their 50% save percentage is tied with the Colorado Rockies and the Braves for second worst in the league. Despite hitting 139 home runs (with only four teams hitting more), their pitching struggles have offset this offensive power.
Manager Ron Washington took an indefinite leave from the team due to an undisclosed medical condition. Ray Montgomery took over as skipper on June 20, and the team has a record of 11-11 under his management.
Despite these challenges, there are glimmers of hope. Nolan Schanuel's average exit velocity in the current season is 87.3, and Jorge Soler has added 10 home runs to the team's total. Zach Neto is batting .279, has hit 15 home runs, and has a near .500 slugging percentage. Jo Adell is slashing .243/.317/.483, has 19 home runs, and is playing very good defense.
However, according to FanGraphs, the Angels have a 5% chance of making the playoffs, a statistic that underscores the uphill battle they face in the second half of the season. As the Angels navigate the remaining games, they will need to address their pitching woes and improve their consistency on both sides of the ball to have a chance at contending for a playoff spot in 2023.
The Angels' remaining season strength of schedule is no harder or easier than other teams, suggesting parity in the league. They are tied with the Minnesota Twins and just half a game behind the Texas Rangers, offering a glimmer of hope for a potential late-season surge.
In conclusion, while the Angels have faced significant challenges in the 2023 season, their potential for a late-season resurgence cannot be ruled out. However, their current statistical trends show significant pitching and offensive weaknesses, making them unlikely to contend seriously for a playoff spot this season.
Mike Trout, who is not currently on the roster due to an injury, might provide a boost if he returns to form and can help the Angels improve their struggling offense.
Despite the challenges they face, the Angels' young players, such as Taylor Ward, Nolan Schanuel, Jorge Soler, Jo Adell, and Zach Neto, offer promising signs for the future, suggesting that sports-analysis could forecast a brighter prospect for their team in the upcoming seasons.
