Angels sign left-handed reliever Alex Claudio to one-year deal

The Los Angeles Angels began the offseason needing to upgrade their bullpen. They're hoping they took another step in the right direction on Wednesday. 

The Angels have confirmed the signing of left-handed reliever Alex Claudio to a one-year deal worth $1.125 million. Earlier this month, the Angels acquired closer Raisel Iglesias from the Cincinnati Reds. 

Claudio, who turns 29 in January, was with the Texas Rangers from 2014 through 2018. He was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in December 2018. According to Baseball-Reference, he led the league among pitchers by participating in 83 games during his first season with Milwaukee. 

Claudio made 20 appearances during the pandemic-shortened campaign and recorded a 4.26 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 15 strikeouts, six walks, and two home runs surrendered across 19 innings of work. 

According to Alden Gonzalez of ESPN, left-handed hitters have tallied a .202/.246/.310 line against Claudio during his big-league career. 

"Having a quality lefty is important, especially in our ballpark with a shorter right field," Angels general manager Perry Minasian said in his prepared statement. "He's a guy who has a few things: durability, versatility in his role, can pitch multiple innings and defends himself against right-handed hitters."

Minasian added: 

"I think he understands who he is and knows what type of pitcher he is. He's really intelligent. He can make adjustments on the fly on the mound, and he can read swings. He has the ability to put the ball on the ground, which I think is important with our infield defense. And from an exit-velo standpoint, he had an outstanding year and led all relievers."