Hunter Strickland: Everything you need to know

Strickland signed a minor-league contract with the Angels on Friday, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. Strickland gave up one earned run over five innings this spring with the Angels, and after exploring his options in free agency, he'll now return to the organization. The 37-year-old righty has turned in a 3.30 ERA and 1.12 WHIP over 95.1 innings since he originally joined the Halos in 2024, and he could be welcomed back into the big-league bullpen if he bounces back nicely in Triple-A from the season-ending shoulder injury he suffered last July.

The Angels released Strickland on Saturday. After recovering from a shoulder injury that ended his season in early July last year, Strickland made five appearances in the Cactus League with Los Angeles, during which he gave up one earned run on five hits and no walks while striking out two batters over five innings. Although his age and durability are both concerns, he may still be able to attract a deal in the open market.

Strickland (shoulder) tossed a bullpen session Wednesday during the Angels' first workout of spring training, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. Strickland didn't make any appearances in the majors or minors after July 6 last season due to a right shoulder strain, but he looks to be fully healthy as spring training gets underway. The veteran right-hander is attending camp as a non-roster invitee and will need to perform well during the Cactus League to clinch a spot in the Angels' Opening Day bullpen. Strickland made 19 appearances for the Halos last season, notching one save and two holds while posting a 3.27 ERA and 1.23 WHIP in 22 innings.