Two Truths, One Lie: Angels Edition

Truth #1: Raising the Floor of the Team

The Angels have been a two-trick pony for the past couple of years. Their roster was outfielder Mike Trout, two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, and 24 other guys. However, the team made a concerted effort to surround their two all-stars with viable players to raise the floor and possibly the win totals. One month into the season, we can safely say this is true.

Slugger Hunter Renfroe and the versatile league-average bats Gio Urshella and Brandon Drury have provided depth to a lineup that didn't scare anyone last year. Additionally, third baseman Anthony Rendon is back after two injury-plagued seasons and delivering in the cleanup spot.

Truth #2: The Farm System is Barren

While having a deep major league roster is excellent, having prospects behind them is just as critical to augment the MLB squad in case of injuries or prolonged slumps. The Angels need to cultivate talent better in their minor league system. For example, top 100 prospect Jo Adell came with some severe hype only to bounce between Salt Lake City and Anaheim for the past three years. He's in the same boat as our beloved Jarred Kelenic, "Put up or Shut up" time. While Kelenic is producing at the MLB level, Adell is toiling in SLC, waiting for his next chance to grab the right-field spot.

They recently designated known Mariner killer David Fletcher for assignment and called up shortstop Zach Neto, who has 44 games of minor league service under his belt. That sounds like a move that reeks of desperation. However, rookie catcher Logan O'Hoppe made the opening-day roster and is also holding his own.

There isn't much to write home about behind these three prospects. The Angels have a couple of intriguing arms, but if we are ranking AL West farm systems, they will share the cellar with the Athletics.

Lie #1: Tyler Anderson will solidify the starting staff

Last season, veteran southpaw Tyler Anderson enjoyed a breakout campaign across town with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He parlayed a 15-win to a three-year deal with the Angels. The thought was the seasoned pitcher would add leadership in a rotation with youngsters Patrick Sandoval and Reid Detmers. But, according to Fangraphs, the early season results could be better.

What does this all mean? A pitcher who gets by on craftiness and control and avoids bats isn't doing any of those things. He might turn it around, but the Angels' rotation is missing a key piece for now.

The Angels are probably still hanging out near the cellar in this division at the end of the season. There are some interesting storylines, such as a possible Shohei Ohtani trade. We'll continue to shift through the truths and lies every few months. Here's to another subpar year from our friends in Anaheim.