Fresh off a historic 100-loss season, new ownership must decide if veteran stalwarts or rising youth will lead the Halos’ roster overhaul during a pivotal winter transition.
The 2026 season has officially closed for the Los Angeles Angels, and it came with plenty of ups and downs. Although the Angels haven't been a postseason team in over a decade, they still deliver entertaining baseball, one way or another, throughout the year.
This year was certainly no exception to that pattern, as stars emerged and promises of a brighter future came despite the franchise’s first 100-loss season. It may have been the worst season yet in the club’s existence, but it serves as the perfect bookend to a disappointing era that’s coming to a close with new ownership heading into town.
With new ownership set to take over early next season, there are a lot of unknowns for the Halos. How will new owner Stan Kroenke approach free agency and the trade market? Are players more willing to sign with the Angels now that the Arte Moreno stain has been removed? Those questions will be answered once we get to the meat of the offseason, but for now, everything’s up in the air.
The Angels don’t have much talent entering free agency this winter, with only four players potentially entering the open market. That’ll keep some money available for bringing in players from across the league if Kroenke and company decide to be aggressive. Still, let’s take a look at who the Angels’ upcoming free agents are.
Travis d’Arnaud, C
The Angels got 32 games out of the 14-year veteran in 2026, most of which came towards the end of the season after Logan O’Hoppe was shipped to the Texas Rangers. His .475 OPS is far from impressive, but his experience behind the plate provided meaningful value down the stretch. It’s worth noting the Angels’ pitching staff improved drastically in the final months, and d’Arnaud was behind the plate for much of it. It won’t take much to bring him back if the Halos wish to do so.
Yoan Moncada, 3B
Moncada resigned with the Halos after a solid 2025 season, but he only played 41 games this year. His time on the field wasn't great either, slashing just a .605 OPS and striking out 45 times. With the young infielders available to the Angels, it’s likely we’ve seen the last of Moncada at the hot corner in Anaheim.
Adam Frazier, Utility
Frazier served as a depth piece for the Halos in 2026, playing most of his games at second base while also being used in the outfield and as a pinch hitter. Soon to be 35 years old, Frazier’s 91 OPS+ may be enough to bring him back on an inexpensive deal, although he certainly won’t be a starter with the youngsters making their way into the major league lineup.
Robert Stephenson, RHP
The Angels possess a $2.5 million club option for Stephenson, who didn’t appear at all in 2026 due to injury. After signing a $33 million deal ahead of the 2024 campaign, Stephenson has tossed just 10 innings in an Angels uniform. The club option for 2027 is cheaper than his previous salaries, but the Angels may be wise to just bite the bullet and give another player a chance with his roster spot.
