The Los Angeles Angels, currently sitting at the bottom of the American League standings, made a move to bolster their bullpen on Friday. The AL West team announced that they have claimed right-handed pitcher off waivers from the Boston Red Sox.
Boston designated the 28-year-old rookie for assignment earlier this week. Meanwhile, the Angels, who had three open spots on their 40-man roster following the trade deadline, will now place Watson on their active roster.
The Red Sox originally picked up Watson from the Athletics in the Rule 5 Draft. Over 55.2 innings, he recorded a 4.53 ERA while striking out 17.9% of opposing hitters.
However, Boston’s recent trade for reliever Erik Miller from the San Francisco Giants—dealing former top prospect Marcelo Mayer in the process—ultimately pushed Watson off the roster.
At the trade deadline, the Angels dealt away three relievers—Kirby Yates, Brent Suter, and Ryan Zeferjahn.
Watson, who transitioned from a starting role to the bullpen during his time in the minors a few years ago, now steps in as a potential solution. His addition should help the Angels restore some of the bullpen depth they lost with those moves.
