Alek Manoah's journey takes a new turn as he signs with the Angels! It's a story of redemption, second chances, and the unpredictable nature of professional baseball. According to a source who spoke to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Angels and former All-Star Alek Manoah have reached an agreement. The deal, expected to be for one year, is valued at $1.95 million, though the team has yet to officially confirm the details.
Manoah, once a rising star, now finds himself in a reclamation project for the Angels. Entering his age-28 season, his last appearance in the major leagues was in May 2024 with the Blue Jays, the team where he began his career, earned an All-Star selection, and spent parts of four seasons. But his time in Toronto ended on a disappointing note.
The right-handed pitcher underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2024, the culmination of a challenging period. This downturn followed a season of underperformance that led to a demotion to Triple-A. And this is the part most people miss: the unexpected nature of his decline. Manoah was coming off an incredible 2022 season, where he went 16-7 with a 2.24 ERA and finished third in AL Cy Young voting. He was, at one point, among the most dominant pitchers in the game.
After recovering from Tommy John surgery, Manoah made 10 rehab starts for the Jays in 2025, with the final seven for Triple-A Buffalo. He posted a 2.97 ERA in Triple-A before being designated for assignment on September 23. The Braves claimed him on waivers, hoping he could rediscover his 2022 form, but Atlanta ultimately didn't offer him a contract for 2026.
But here's where it gets controversial: If Manoah can return to his 2022 form, he could be a significant asset to the Angels' pitching staff. During that season, he held opponents to one or no runs in 14 of his 31 starts and had a 0.94 ERA over his final seven games.
For his career, Manoah holds a record of 29-20 with a 3.34 ERA in 75 appearances, all as a starter.
What do you think? Can Manoah bounce back and become the pitcher he once was? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
