Angels Release Pitcher Despite Strong Minors Showings

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The Los Angeles Angels released left-handed reliever Joey Lucchesi, according to their official player development page.

The Angels have made the following minor league transactions: pic.twitter.com/Fn9Ajij396

— Angels Player Development (@AngelsPlayerDev) July 2, 2026

Lucchesi, 33, signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Halos just before the start of the season, but didn’t last long for the team. The Angels designated him for assignment April 5 and he elected free agency after clearing waivers, though he ended up re-signing with the team—a common theme throughout the year.

The Angels did the same dance with Lucchesi on two more occasions, with their most recent re-signing of the left-hander coming at the beginning of June.

Lucchesi has made five appearances with the big league club this season, allowing five earned runs through 3.1 innings for a 13.50 ERA. His performance in the minors have been far more impressive, especially since his return at the beginning of June.

Last month, Lucchesi only allowed three earned runs through 15.1 innings pitched for a 1.76 ERA, and struck out a total of 22 batters.

The Angels could very well be restructuring the details of Lucchesi’s deal with this move, especially due to his recent performances. If not, though, there are sure to be plenty of teams who are looking to add a left-handed reliever riding a string of strong performances in the minor leagues.

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Apr 28, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles Angels pitcher Joey Lucchesi (67) pitches against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Where Else Has Joey Lucchesi Played?​


Lucchesi began his career in the NL West with the San Diego Padres, pitching for the Friars for three seasons from 2018-20. He posted a 4.21 ERA through 59 appearances there—58 of which came as starts. After his stint in San Diego, the left-hander moved to Queens to play with the New York mets.

He remained in New York from 2021-24, though only played in three of those four seasons due to an injury which kept him sidelined for all of 2022. With the Mets, Lucchesi had a 3.78 ERA through 22 appearances.

Lucchesi transitioned to a bullpen role after moving on from the Mets, making 38 relief appearances for the San Francisco Giants in 2025. He had a 3.76 ERA in 38.1 innings pitched last season, managing an above average ERA+ on the year.

His time in Anaheim didn’t quite pan out, though his quality in years passed shows he has the ability to perform in MLB.

The post Angels Release Pitcher Despite Strong Minors Showings appeared first on LA Sports Report.

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