Yusei Kikuchi signs $63 million contract with Los Angeles Angels
- Yusei Kikuchi has secured a $63 million, three-year contract with the Los Angeles Angels.
- His previous performance included a 2.70 ERA in 10 starts with the Houston Astros.
- This signing is part of the Angels' strategy to revamp their roster after a poor season.
In a recent development in Major League Baseball, Yusei Kikuchi, a 33-year-old left-handed pitcher, has signed a lucrative three-year contract with the Los Angeles Angels, amounting to $63 million. This deal, confirmed by sources familiar with the negotiations, reflects the Angels' aggressive approach to rebuilding their team after a disappointing 2024 season where they recorded a franchise-worst 63-99 win-loss record. Kikuchi's contract increases his overall MLB earnings to $142 million over nine seasons, signifying his successful career in the league. Last season, he boasted a respectable 4.05 ERA across 32 starts, including a strong performance with the Houston Astros where he achieved a 2.70 ERA in 10 starts. His joining the Angels adds depth to their pitching rotation, which already includes notable left-handers and right-handers. This signing implies the Angels' intent to strengthen their roster to end a playoff drought that has lasted since 2014, especially following the loss of star player Shohei Ohtani to free agency. As part of their offseason strategy, the Angels have also secured deals with other players, indicating a comprehensive effort to improve the team's competitive standing in the league.