Darren Oliver to Return to Anaheim

After a season in which he was one of the Angels’ most dependable pitchers, 38 year-old Darren Oliver will be returning to Anaheim for at least one more season. On Friday, it was announced that the Angels avoided arbitration with Oliver by agreeing to terms with the left-hander on a $3.655 million contract for the upcoming 2009 season.

While Oliver, 38, holds an unremarkable career ERA of 4.84, his last two seasons as a member of the Angels have been arguably two of the finest in his fifteen year career. In 2007, he went 3-1 with a 3.78 ERA and a 1.259 WHIP in 64 1/3 innings. One year later, the numbers continued to improve for Oliver, as he was 7-1 with a 2.88 ERA and a 1.153 WHIP in 72 innings.

Oliver’s versatility and durability would have been sorely missed if he was to leave the Angels via free agency. Since joining the major leagues in 1993 with the Texas Rangers, he was been a pitcher in every capacity with the exception of closer. With the expected departure of starter Jon Garland and injury to Kelvim Escobar, the Angels lack a definite number five starter in their rotation.

If either Dustin Mosley or Nick Adenhart is unable to fill the void, than it’s quite possible that Oliver could move from the bullpen to the starting rotation.

But if all goes to plan, the Angels find a dependable number five starter, than Oliver can pitch as a middle reliever in order to give the back end of the bullpen rest for the playoffs.

Jose Arredondo, Scot Shields, and closer Brian Fuentes, are three of the best relief pitchers in the American League, and their services will be greatly needed come playoff time. However, if they are forced to pitch an exorbitant number of innings in July and August, than the Halos could have some bullpen issues come postseason time. Oliver’s signing is so significant because it saves the other relievers from pitching too many innings during the regular season and allows them to be well rested come playoff time.