Introduction:
The LA Angels have not had much success in recent years. They have failed to qualify for the playoffs in each of the past five seasons and have only won a single playoff game since winning the World Series in 2002. However, there is hope for the Angels to change their fortunes. Billy Eppler, the team’s general manager, has been making some great moves that could lead the Angels back to being a contender.
International signings:
One area where Eppler has excelled is in international signings. There have been several players that he has signed that have already had an impact on the team. Japanese two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani is the most notable example. He has been both a great pitcher and hitter during his time with the Angels.
Draft picks:
Eppler has also made some great draft picks. Jahmai Jones, Brandon Marsh, and Jo Adell are three players that Eppler has drafted and that have a bright future ahead of them. Jones has already made his major league debut, and Marsh and Adell are expected to make an impact within the next few years.
Trades:
Eppler has also made some great trades. When he traded for Andrelton Simmons in 2015, it was a move that was widely praised. Simmons has been one of the best defensive shortstops in the game and has also improved his hitting during his time with the Angels. Eppler also traded for Justin Upton in 2017, who has been a consistent source of power and run production for the Angels.
Free agent signings:
Eppler has also made some good free agent signings. In 2018, he signed Zack Cozart, who provided excellent defense at third base before being hampered by injuries. He also signed Brian Goodwin, who has been a solid outfielder for the Angels since being acquired in a trade with the Nationals.
Minor league system:
Eppler has also made changes to the Angels’ minor league system, hiring people who have a track record of developing players. This has resulted in more prospects being developed, which will lead to more talent for the major league team in the future.
Analytics:
Eppler has also embraced analytics, which has helped the Angels make more informed decisions. This has been evident in the team’s approach to defensive shifts, where they have been one of the most aggressive teams in the league in using them.
Overall approach:
Eppler’s overall approach to building the Angels has been one that is geared towards sustained success. Rather than going all-in for a single season, he has made moves that will help the team both in the short-term and in the long-term.
Conclusion:
Billy Eppler has been making moves that have helped the Angels become a better team. His approach to building a team is one that has the potential for sustained success. If the Angels continue to make smart moves under Eppler’s leadership, they could become a contender in the years to come.
FAQs:
Q: What is Billy Eppler’s background?
A: Billy Eppler worked in the New York Yankees organization for over a decade before being hired as the Angels’ general manager.
Q: When did Billy Eppler become the Angels’ general manager?
A: Billy Eppler was hired as the Angels’ general manager in October 2015.
Q: What is analytics?
A: Analytics is the use of data to make more informed decisions.
Q: Who is Andrelton Simmons?
A: Andrelton Simmons is the Angels’ shortstop who was traded for by Billy Eppler in 2015.
Q: Who is Brian Goodwin?
A: Brian Goodwin is an outfielder who was acquired by the Angels in a trade with the Washington Nationals in 2019.
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