Los Angeles Angels Notes

The Angels will pay $11 million to Gary Matthews Jr. this season even though he's not playing for them

The Blue Jays flipped Mike Napoli to the Rangers for Frank Francisco. Who would you rather have as your closer? Frank Francisco or Fernando Rodney? I really wouldn't want either but for now the it looks like the Angels are stuck with Rodney.

For what its worth - Baseball-Reference.com lists Andre Dawson as the most similar batter through age 31 season to Vernon Wells. In his age 32 season Dawson left his Canadian team (the Expos) and exploded for his new team hitting 49 HR with 137 RBI (both led the league) for the Cubs. Could Wells have a similar rebirth with the Angels? Winning an MVP like Dawson may be asking too much for Wells but I do think Wells could be a sleeper.

Also for what its worth - Baseball-Reference.com lists Dontrelle Willis as the most similar pitcher to Scott Kazmir. That's not a good thing.

Unless he has a monster season I'm guessing the Angels won't pick up Kazmir's $13.5 million option for 2012. Combine that money saved with the $11 million coming off the books for Gary Matthews Jr. and it looks like the Angels will be active in the free agent market come wintertime. Prince Fielder? Heath Bell? Jonathan Papelbon?