Los Angeles Angels: Four bold predictions for the Angels in 2018
By Jason Reed
3. The Angels will return to the postseason
The Los Angeles Angels have not won a playoff game this decade; Mike Trout has never won a playoff game in his career. Los Angeles did make the playoffs with the MLB’s best record in 2014, where they were swept by the Kansas City Royals. To find the Angels last playoff game you must go back to 2009 when the Angels fell four games to two to the Yankees in the ALCS.
2018 looks to be the year that will be different for the Los Angeles Angels. Although the American League is tougher than ever, the Angels have put together a great group of guys that can lead them back to the playoffs.
Zack Cozart is a breakout all-star outfielder that will be huge atop the lineup if he can come close to the same production in 2017. Kinsler may be old and may not have the same swing as before, but his bat still has plenty of pop. Simmons has emerged as the MVP candidate that he is and Justin Upton adds another power-hitting option to the lineup.
Mike Trout is Mike Trout, the pitching staff will be better and the Angels will get good production from Ohtani early on. The team has all the makings of a successful season, it is just putting it all together. Finally, in 2018, the Angels will put it all together.
Los Angeles has a pretty tough test to win the AL West with the Houston Astros reigning supreme. However, the Halos are easily suitable for a Wild Card spot — which may be a foregone conclusion.
Hopefully, if the Angels do make the playoffs, whether it be in the Wild Card or as AL West Champions, Mike Trout can win his first playoff game.