Angels Deny Option, Cut Ties With Oft-Injured Relief Pitcher

Support Local Media - Click to Add LA Sports Report as a Preferred Source on GoogleThe Los Angeles Angels denied right-handed relief pitcher Robert Stephenson's option for the 2027 season following his injury troubles.Stephenson signed a three-year, $33 million deal with the Angels prior to the 2024 season, triggering the injury-prompted option year in his contract after undergoing elbow surgery before that season.He made his debut for the team in 2025, but more injuries kept him on the sidelines for all but 12 appearances, spanning 10 innings last season. He underwent Tommy John surgery for a second time in 2026, missing the entire season and likely keeping him out for the beginning of the 2027 season.Stephenson's option was only for $2.5 million, but they likely decided the extra spot on their roster was more valuable given his injury status.Was Robert Stephenson a Good Pitcher When the Angels Signed Him?While Stephenson's time with the Angels was forgettable to say the least, he put together a solid season the year prior to his deal to prompt his payday.He played 60 games over the course of the 2023 season, posting a 3.10 ERA through 52.1 innings pitched. His best stretch came with the Tampa Bay Rays for his final 42 appearances of the season, as he posted a 2.35 ERA through 38.1 innings with the team while striking out 60 batters.Over the course of his nine MLB seasons, Stephenson has a 4.59 ERA through 283 appearances, 22 of which came as starts.Now, though, Stephenson will try his hand in free agency alongside former Angels teammates Yoan Moncada, Adam Frazier and Travis d'Arnaud during the winter.Who Can the Angels Sign to Replace Robert Stephenson?The Angels have already managed without Stephenson for the majority of the last three seasons, but have the opportunity to massively upgrade during this year's offseason.While the free agency class as a whole isn't especially strong, there are plenty of valuable relievers around for them to snag. All-Star Adrian Morejon headlines the group, entering free agency for the first time after a few fantastic seasons with the San Diego Padres.He isn't the only one, though, as well-recognized names like David Bednar, Raisel Iglesias and Alex Vesia among others are also available.While they're yet to take over, the Angels' new ownership has the possibility to make a splash this offseason when they take over in the first quarter of 2027, and could reinforce an area in which the Angels have desperately needed help for the past couple of seasons.The post Angels Deny Option, Cut Ties With Oft-Injured Relief Pitcher appeared first on LA Sports Report.