Angels Make Roster Move After Unfortunate Injury News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Michael DeFrancisco | Last updated Apr 7, 2025 2:17 PM ET

The Los Angeles Angels have had a nice start to the 2025 season. They currently own a 6-3 record, which puts them second in the AL West division. While the team is led by veteran manager Ron Washington, Los Angeles has seen a recent youth movement with plenty of young players beginning to leave their mark on the franchise.

One area of concern, however, is the pitching staff. So far this season, the Angels' team ERA is 4.81 which ranks 23rd in MLB. They are also bottom-10 in strikeouts and walks allowed, and are tied for second-worst in home runs allowed. In the bullpen, they have been even worse. Angels relievers have accumulated a 5.58 ERA so far this season.

On Sunday, the Angels made some organizational pitching moves.

In an official announcement , the team revealed they released pitcher Hans Crouse, optioned Caden Dana and selected the contract Michael Darrell-Hicks. Crouse spent time with the Angels' major league club last season and appeared in 25 games out of the bullpen. He pitched well in 25.1 innings, with a 2.84 ERA and a 1.224 WHIP. His 12 K/9 ratio is excellent, but he also allowed 6 BB/9, which is sub-par.

The 26-year-old began the year with the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees. Unfortunately, he had to exit a recent game after just four pitches, signaling a significant injury.

"The Angels release Hans Crouse just days after suffering what appeared to be a serious injury," Sam Blum of The Athletic wrote. "Rough."

Darrell-Hicks goes from being an undrafted free agent in 2022 to the big leagues a few years later.

The Angels release Hans Crouse just days after suffering what appeared to be a serious injury. Rough. https://t.co/79kLRN10JR
— Sam Blum (@SamBlum3) April 6, 2025

Crouse throws a fastball, slider and changeup. Those three offerings are all average velocity-wise, but they do generate lots of swing and miss. His problem has been corralling his pitches to limit the walks and hard contact.

While his injury has not been officially diagnosed yet, he will be hoping to make a smooth recovery in hopes of gaining another opportunity soon.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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