Angels release struggling pitcher Alek Manoah

The Los Angeles Angels have officially released pitcher Alek Manoah, according to reports from The Orange County Register. Manoah, who was once considered a future ace for the Toronto Blue Jays, has been let go after a dismal performance in the minor leagues.

Manoah, 28, was originally selected 11th overall by the Blue Jays in the 2019 MLB draft. He made a rapid ascent to the majors in 2021 and had a standout season in 2022. That year, he pitched 196.2 innings across 31 starts, recording 180 strikeouts, a 16-7 record, and a 2.24 ERA. His performance, which included an All-Star selection and a second-place finish in Cy Young voting behind Justin Verlander and Dylan Cease, marked him as a key player for the team's future.

However, Manoah experienced a significant downturn in 2023, with his ERA+ dropping to 73. The following season, he underwent surgery for a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and was designated for assignment (DFA) by the Blue Jays at the end of the 2025 season.

The Angels offered Manoah another opportunity, signing him to a short-term contract after the season. He began the current season on the injured list due to a bruised right index finger. Upon his return in May, he was used in relief, giving up 8 earned runs in 3 appearances for an ERA of 9.82. His struggles continued in the minor leagues, where his ERA in Triple-A ballooned to an alarming 16.14, ultimately leading to his release.