Grayson Rodriguez 'Shocked' by Angels Trade, Confident in Health for Spring Training

Grayson Rodriguez, a former Orioles first-round pick, expressed shock but excitement about his trade to the Los Angeles Angels, viewing it as a fresh start. After a breakthrough 2024 season (13-4, 3.86 ERA, 130 K) cut short by back muscle discomfort, he missed all of 2025 due to elbow, shoulder, and back issues, eventually undergoing surgery to remove bone spurs that had lingered for years. Rodriguez, who has already spoken with Angels pitching coach Mike Maddux, is confident his arm feels great and expects to be ready for spring training after starting long-toss and bullpen sessions in January. Angels GM Perry Minasian acknowledged the risk but emphasized Rodriguez's four years of control and potential to impact the rotation, while the trade also freed up salary for further free-agent pursuits.