3 Important Pitchers for the upcoming season.

For years, the Angels have struggled to find consistent pitching, but 2025 might finally be the year things change. With key acquisitions and young arms taking steps forward, the staff has a chance to be the best it has been in a long time. Here are three pitchers who will be crucial to the team’s success:

Yusei Kikuchi – The Big Signing

The Angels made their most significant pitching acquisition since the C.J. Wilson era by bringing in Yusei Kikuchi. He’s being paid to be the ace of the staff, and the team is handing him the Opening Day start. If the Angels are going to compete, they need the version of Kikuchi that dominated for the Astros—someone who can take the ball for 30 starts, post a winning record, and keep his ERA and FIP in the mid-3s.

The pressure is on, but if Kikuchi delivers, he could stabilize the rotation.

Jose Soriano – The True Ace in the Making

While Kikuchi might be the Opening Day starter, Jose Soriano is the pitcher with the most electric stuff on the staff. With four plus pitches, including a mid-90s split-finger fastball and a wipeout Knuckle-Curve , Soriano has all the tools to be the Angels’ next great pitcher since Shohei Ohtani.

The only question is health. If Soriano can stay on the mound, he has the potential to dominate. If he takes another step forward in 2025, he could be the breakout ace that Angels fans have been waiting for.

José Suarez – The Surprise Factor

One of the most unexpected players to watch this season is José Suarez. A new mentality and improved conditioning have given him a fresh start. If he stays in shape and keeps his confidence up, he has the potential to be a key contributor.

If he performs well, Suarez could not only solidify a role in the bullpen but also become a valuable trade piece at the deadline. The Angels would love to see him put together a strong first half, allowing them to either rely on him in key spots or sell high and bring in reinforcements.