Hoffman, Big Unit not on the Halo Radar

Randy Johnson will not be pitching in Anaheim next season despite the numerous rumors.

The Hoffman and Johnson rumors started a few weeks ago, as potential holes exist in the Angels’ closer role, with Francisco Rodriguez a free agent, and in the rotation, with Jon Garland also in free agency. But neither Hoffman, who will not return to the Padres next season, nor Johnson, whose return to Diamondbacks is questionable, is on the radar of the American League West champions.

Both Johnson, 45, and Hoffman, 41, showed signs of aging this past season, as they posted less than desirable numbers. Johnson had an ERA extremely close to 4 at 3.91 and had a so-so record with 11-10. Hoffman, the all-time saves leader, had just 30 saves, twelve fewer than in 2007, and posted an unusually high 3.77 ERA.

While the Angels will likely need a new fifth starter and closer, it’s a relif that they have decided to fill those needs with younger, cheaper, and more talented players instead of overpriced veterans.