Angels recall Sam Bachman from Triple-A and place Robert Stephenson on the 15-day injured list, intensifying a bullpen crisis with eight games left in the season. Bachman has spent time between MLB and Salt Lake this year, returning as the Angels shuffle arms. Stephenson’s latest IL stint ends his 2025 page, leaving the Angels short-handed as they chase critical outs down the stretch.

Victor Mederos, Jose Soriano and Zach Neto are also sidelined, amplifying depth concerns for a pen already without several veterans. With Perry Minasian and Ray Montgomery steering roster decisions, the club weighs 2026 implications while Yusei Kikuchi weighs management decisions that could affect late-season usage and fantasy outlooks.

The series against Colorado and the ongoing injuries force a pivot to younger options and stress the depth chart, testing the longer-term plan as the season winds down.

Mike Trout's return to the Los Angeles Angels lineup has been a significant boost after a series of injuries plagued the team. Following a knee injury, Trout made a strong comeback, going 5-for-10 in his first three games back against the Cleveland Guardians, despite the Angels losing two of the three games. However, the team's struggles continued as they faced additional injury setbacks with Yoan Moncada and Robert Stephenson, both now placed on the injured list. Moncada's knee issues have sidelined him, while Stephenson's biceps injury marks another setback following his Tommy John surgery recovery. The Angels are now gearing up for a crucial series against the Boston Red Sox, needing to navigate these challenges to stay competitive.

Juan Soto made an immediate impact for the New York Mets during his debut, hitting a 426-foot home run in his first at-bat of spring training. As the Mets’ No. 2 hitter, Soto launched the ball at 106.2 mph, setting the tone for a promising season ahead.

Having joined the Mets with a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract, the pressure is palpable for Soto. Despite his previous success with the Yankees, he emphasizes the need for teamwork in pursuing a championship, acknowledging the Mets' recent near-miss in the postseason.

Soto's day continued positively as he contributed with a fielder’s choice, driving in another run. He ended the game with two RBIs, leaving fans excited for what’s to come.