Ahead of their three-game series at Fenway Park, the Los Angeles Angels made a few roster changes, but one stands out. The Angels added Samuel Aldegheri, their No. 5 prospect according to MLB Pipeline, to their roster after placing Robert Stephenson on the injured list.
Angels supporters are eager to watch Aldegheri, a promising pitching prospect, play in Major League Baseball, but how can they be pleased knowing he will be misapplied? Aldegheri is essentially in the squad for the most naive reason imaginable, according to manager Ron Washington.
Aldegheri was deemed the most suitable candidate by the Angels, who needed to elevate a pitcher to consume innings. They only want a temporary solution for their MLB roster, and they could not care less about his progress. The Angels are unable to get out of their own way because of moves like this.
Angels couldn’t care less about developing prospects, and that’s a big reason why they’re in this position
The Angels are headed toward the end of their ninth consecutive losing season and their eleventh consecutive season without making it to the postseason. There are a number of reasons for this, but the primary one is their unwillingness to rebuild appropriately. Part of that is developing their chances in the wrong way.
Despite having only made six appearances at the Double-A level and none in Triple-A, Aldegheri somehow made three starts at the MLB level last season, shortly after being acquired in a midseason deal with the Philadelphia Phillies. Naturally, he had a lot of trouble in two of the three performances. Aldegheri has returned to the major leagues after nine inconsistent Double-A starts this season, most likely for just one appearance out of the bullpen before being sent back down.
Why are the Angels unable to allow Aldegheri to grow up in a healthy and peaceful environment? Simply put him in Double-A every fifth or sixth day, let him become better, and then promote him when he’s ready. Why do they have to hurry him? The fact that they have already done this once during the 2025 campaign just makes the situation worse.
Angels have already seen what they’re about to do with Samuel Aldegheri backfire
Twice this season, the Angels have elevated Caden Dana, their No. 2 prospect and greatest pitching prospect, to the majors to pitch in long relief. Naturally, he had trouble both times. In April, he pitched three innings out of the bullpen against the Miami Marlins and gave up three runs in three innings of relief work against the Cleveland Guardians.
