ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — With three-fifths of their starting rotation gone, the Los Angeles Angels have been busy plugging holes and upgrading a bullpen that routinely surrendered leads last season.
They introduced new pitchers Joe Blanton and Tommy Hanson on Wednesday, along with relievers Sean Burnett and Ryan Madson — both of whom are coming off surgery.
General manager Jerry Dipoto says the Angels’ staff is deeper than it was last season, despite the losses of starters Zack Greinke, Dan Haren and Ervin Santana. Greinke moved up the freeway to join the rival Dodgers in a $147 million, six-year deal that left Dipoto defending Blanton, who signed for $15 million and two years.
Dipoto says Blanton gives the Angels stability and a winning player.
