Alek Manoah is set to make a return to Major League Baseball after signing a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Angels. The contract is worth $1.95 million and is fully guaranteed, according to reports from ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
Alek Manoah’s Journey in MLB
Manoah was designated for assignment by the Toronto Blue Jays on September 23 during a roster move related to Anthony Santander’s activation from the injured list. Following this, he was claimed by the Atlanta Braves, but they ultimately decided against retaining him by the November 21 deadline.
In the 2024 season, Manoah’s performance included a 3.70 ERA, with 26 strikeouts and eight walks over 24.1 innings pitched in five starts. However, he faced significant challenges during this period, resulting in a serious injury.
Injury and Recovery
During his last start of the 2024 season, Manoah reported a pinching sensation in his elbow. This led to surgery on his ulnar collateral ligament, where he underwent a hybrid Tommy John procedure. This procedure involved replacing the ligament and securing a new one with an internal brace suture.
- 2024 Season Stats:
- Innings Pitched: 24.1
- Earned Run Average (ERA): 3.70
- Strikeouts: 26
- Walks: 8
Rehab and Minor League Performance
Following his surgery, Manoah spent the remainder of the 2024 season and most of 2025 in recovery. During his rehabilitation process within the Blue Jays organization, he pitched a total of 38.2 innings across four minor league levels.
- 2025 Minor League Stats:
- ERA: 3.96
- Strikeouts: 35
- Walks: 23
With the signing of Alek Manoah, the Angels are hopeful that he can regain his prior effectiveness on the field. His journey through injury and recovery has been challenging, but this opportunity could mark a significant turnaround in his career.
