The Los Angeles Angels seem poised to entertain trade offers for some of their most promising young talents, a notable shift from past approaches as interim GM John Mozeliak indicated a willingness to consider compelling proposals. Reports suggest the team is particularly open to discussions regarding players like shortstop Zach Neto, along with pitchers Reid Detmers and José Soriano.
While Mozeliak mentioned the possibility of exploring these trade avenues, this doesn’t imply the players are being actively marketed. Neto, Detmers, and Soriano are under team control for multiple seasons, making any potential trade a complex decision. Despite the Angels' openness to considering offers, the current trajectory leans heavily on the expectation that the asking prices will remain steep, likely deterring most interested teams.
Zach Neto: A Player to Watch
Neto, at 25 years old, stands out as a coveted asset in the market, especially among teams in need of a shortstop, such as the Braves, Yankees, and Red Sox. Drafted 13th overall in 2022, he reached the majors remarkably quickly and has solidified his status as a significant contributor. His breakout 2024 season, where he posted 23 home runs and 30 stolen bases, speaks volumes about his potential.
Despite his success, there are areas of concern, including an alarming 31.4% strikeout rate and a growing trend of chasing pitches outside the zone. However, Neto has also improved in certain aspects, including an increased walk rate and better contact rates on pitches within the strike zone. This blend of skills makes him an attractive power-speed threat, crucial for any team looking to enhance their infield.
Financially, Neto is making $4.15 million this season, a relatively manageable contract for what could yield three to five Wins Above Replacement (WAR) annually. This contract length makes him appealing for a trade, though the Angels’ asking price will likely reflect his value and long-term potential.
Reid Detmers: Emerging Starter
Detmers, 27, also commands attention as a valuable trade candidate. Selected 10th overall in the 2020 draft, he has transitioned between roles in the bullpen and starting rotation, but is finally carving out a niche as a reliable starter this year. His statistics illustrate a pitcher on the rise: a 4.16 ERA paired with a promising 27.4% strikeout rate and 3.56 SIERA show his potential is beginning to materialize.
After struggling early in the season, Detmers has rebounded impressively. In his last ten starts, he has recorded a 3.32 ERA with a 29.5% strikeout rate. This upward trend has certainly not gone unnoticed, as teams seeking to bolster their rotations are likely to show interest. With a salary of just $2.625 million in 2026, he remains an intriguing target for both contenders and rebuilding franchises looking toward future seasons.
José Soriano: A Mixed Bag
Soriano's trajectory, on the other hand, has been somewhat unpredictable. He began 2024 with a remarkable streak, but adjusted pitches from opponents have exposed vulnerabilities that he’s working to address. His current 3.43 ERA and 24.8% strikeout rate suggest he still possesses the ability to make an impact, particularly with his strong fastball and accompanying breaking balls.
Despite his high walk rate of 11%, Soriano is still a controllable right-hander, making $2.9 million this season. Teams with strong infield defenses could find him particularly appealing thanks to his capacity to generate ground balls and strikeouts.
The Broader Context of Trade Considerations
While Neto, Detmers, and Soriano are the primary focus, there are additional controllable players on the Angels’ roster. Outfielder Jo Adell has shown flashes of potential and could be appealing as a platoon player, despite subpar performance against right-handed pitchers. The team also boasts relievers like Sam Bachman, Ryan Zeferjahn, and Chase Silseth, all of whom could draw interest for their potential to develop further as they navigate through the arbitration process.
Despite this new willingness to listen to trade offers, it's uncertain whether the Angels will follow through, given owner Arte Moreno’s historical reluctance to let go of controllable talent. A past lack of rebuilding efforts has only prolonged the team’s playoff drought, and serious roster decisions loom ahead. If trades involving Neto, Detmers, or Soriano do happen, they could significantly enhance the organization's future, especially in terms of rejuvenating what has become a struggling farm system.