Hold on to your hats, kids – the Angels almost acquired Ruben Sierra the other day. The L.A. Times has made it known that the Halos need a lefty bat off the bench and are willing to part with Esteban Yan or Kevin Gregg. Apparently one of those two intrigues the Twins enough to toss Sierra their way.
That plan may have been dashed by Sierra’s strained hamstring, however. At this point it’s possible that the Twinkies release him and give his spot to Jason Kubel (fantasy leaguers, take note). If Sierra isn’t released, he’ll start the season on the DL. So the Angels may have to look for another trading partner for their swap.
Halos Heaven also indicates that Tampa Bay could make a play for one of the relievers. Yan was decent for the D-Rays back in 2001-02, and the loss of Shinji Mori creates a need.
In addition, the Angels plan to trade Chris Bootcheck early in the season for whatever needs arise. The 27 year-old righty has only seen 29 innings of Major League action. The former college pick has been a disappointment thus far, posting a 5.42 ERA in his fourth try at Triple A.
