Robert Stephenson, a reliever, signs a three-year contract with the Angels.
The Los Angeles Angels have used free agency to make their first splash this summer. League sources told The Athletic that they reached an agreement with right-handed reliever Robert Stephenson on a three-year, $33 million contract. There’s still a physical to complete the deal.
Stephenson, who turns 31 in a month, just finished his 2023 professional season. Stephenson recorded a 2.35 ERA over 38 1/3 innings after being dealt by the Pirates to the Rays in the middle of the season. He was one of the most productive relievers in the game over that span, striking out 60 and walking just eight.
Last season, he expanded his toolkit to include a cutter and began using his splitter more frequently. Cincinnati was home to Stephenson for the first five seasons of his career. Before joining the Pirates, he pitched for the Rockies as well.
As of right now, Carlos Estévez is the starting closer. In the latter innings, though, Stephenson—his former Colorado teammate—will join him. Stephenson’s career save total is just three.
The Angels have signed Stephenson as their fourth major-league free agent of the offseason. They agreed to a $900,000 one-year contract with lefty Adam Kolarek. Since then, waivers have been used to send him. Reliever Luis Garcia inked a one-year, $4.25 million contract, while Zach Plesac signed a one-year, $1 million agreement.
Although the Angels have often avoided signing starting pitchers to multiyear contracts, they have demonstrated a willingness to sign relievers to longer terms. Estévez, Ryan Tepera, and Aaron Loup all signed two-year contracts.
