What happened
The Los Angeles Angels released RHP Hunter Strickland and INF/OF Chris Taylor. Angels beat reporter Jeff Fletcher states this increases the likelihood of RHP Walbert Urena making the Opening Day roster. Urena has impressed in spring training with outings including 3 scoreless innings and 4 strikeouts, plus a 100.2 mph fastball.
Why it matters
With Grayson Rodriguez and Alek Manoah potentially starting on the IL, the Angels require additional bullpen arms. Urena's high-velocity relief could stabilize early-season pitching, affecting betting lines for Angels over/unders and props. Fantasy baseball players gain a speculative deep-league option.
What to watch
Watch for Angels' IL announcements on Rodriguez and Manoah, and final roster reveal before Opening Day.