Los Angeles Angels I want to improve in almost every aspect of the game next season. After a franchise-record season, that shouldn’t be hard to do.

Managing Director Perry Minasian emphasized that after a difficult 99-loss season, the focus this offseason is on strengthening every area of ​​the team.

“We’re open to anything, right? » said Minasian. “So we want to improve in all areas, whether it’s the rotation, the bullpen or the positioning of the player group. Depth is obviously very important in this game, so there’s not just one area that we’re looking for. We are looking to improve the whole team.

The first addition to the offense was a trade for designated hitter Jorge Soler from the Atlanta Braves.

The Angels are expected to see an increase in payroll from last year, with Soler accounting for some of that increase. He is expected to earn $13 million in 2025 and 2026.

“Power was something for me that I would like to add more to if I can,” Minasian said.. “We were 29th in slug last year, so (Jorge) Soler made sense. … We could use some help in the rotation, bullpen, depth, infield, outfield, everything that. I don’t close any doors.”

The second addition to the roster was officially announced Thursday night in the form of free agent starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks. The two sides finalized a one-year, $2.5 million contract Thursday evening.

Hendricks spent his entire major league career with the Chicago Cubs, compiling a 97-81 record with a 3.68 ERA over 270 starts and six relief appearances over 11 seasons. He had the distinction of being the last active player on the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series roster, the team that ended a 108-year championship drought.

The team is now focused on upgrading second base, third base and center field. General manager Perry Minasian remains committed to adding pitching depth throughout the organization, an ongoing priority for him. Although the Angels have made gradual progress, a strong offseason could help accelerate their rebuilding timeline.

“We will examine all avenues” Minasian said. “Whatever is available. Anything that can make the club better. Whoever is available from a free agency standpoint, we’ll dig in and see if they’re the right fit.