Angels sign Kikuchi to 3-year, $63M deal
The Los Angeles Angels signed left-hander Yusei Kikuchi to a three-year, $63-million contract, the team announced Wednesday.
Kikuchi ended the 2024 season with the Houston Astros after being acquired in a trade with the Toronto Blue Jays. He pitched admirably in Houston, registering a 2.70 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and averaging 11.4 strikeouts per nine innings across 60 innings.
The 33-year-old southpaw spent three years in Toronto before being shipped to Houston. Kikuchi became a reliable piece of the Blue Jays' rotation after struggling in his first season, posting a 3.86 ERA in 2023 and a 4.75 ERA in 2024 before his move.
The Angels have been busy this offseason. They also added slugger Jorge Soler in a deal with the Atlanta Braves and veteran starter Kyle Hendricks in free agency. Los Angeles has picked up first baseman Ryan Noda, catcher Travis d'Arnaud, and utility player Scott Kingery as well.
The Angels finished last in 2024 with a 63-99 record.