Leave a comment

Los Angeles Angels

The Angels Farm System: The Angels’ farm system is built more on volume than star power, with intriguing athletes and arms scattered throughout but very few projecting as true fantasy impact talents; overall, it’s a collection of everyday-upside and speculative depth profiles rather than cornerstone prospects.

Summary

The Angels’ farm system is thin at the top, with only a few players with a chance to be impact players.  Tyler Bremner and Johnny Slawinski are polished enough to move quickly, but their ceilings look more mid‑rotation or steady regular than stars. Chase Shores’ fastball/slider combo gives him mid-rotation upside if the change-up arrives, while Denzer Guzman’s athletic infield profile offers everyday regular potential. Even intriguing names like Nelson Rada and Raudi Rodriguez carry limitations — Rada’s speed is real, but his power is capped, while Rodriguez’s swing‑and‑miss risk clouds his otherwise appealing power/speed blend.

The next tier is filled with everyday‑upside types who could contribute but lack impact ceilings. Gabriel Davalillo brings raw strength but questionable contact skills, while Trey Gregory‑Alford flashes big velocity and athleticism but remains raw. On the mound, Ryan Johnson and Samy Natera Jr. both show swing‑and‑miss stuff but struggle with control, leaving bullpen futures more likely than rotation roles. These players could grow into useful pieces, but none stand out as surefire fantasy drivers.

While there are interesting profiles scattered throughout the system, the farm lacks high‑probability stars. Dynasty managers should temper expectations.

 

AI-Assisted Fantasy Tiers: Methodology and Observations

AI has made significant strides in all aspects of our lives. Over the past four years, I have compiled 500,000 words of personal scouting narratives, which have formed the foundation for training my own AI assistant. This assistant now evaluates prospects and assigns fantasy tiers exclusively based on the insights and observations contained in my write-ups.

After requesting that my AI assistant generate fantasy tiers using this year’s reports, I found that the AI’s rankings generally align with my own assessments. However, there are some cases where the AI’s evaluations differ from my personal rankings. I am sharing those differences here for your consideration.

🥇 Tier 1: Fantasy Impact Targets

  • Chase Shores – Triple-digit fastball, 70-grade slider, starter upside if change-up develops.
  • Denzer Guzman – Athletic infielder, growing power/speed blend, OBP skills, multi-positional everyday potential.
  • Tyler Bremner – Mid-90s fastball, advanced command, polished starter profile, potential mid-rotation impact.
  • Johnny Slawinski – Plus hit tool, gap power, strong approach, everyday regular upside at premium position.

🥈 Tier 2: Everyday-Upside Targets

  • Nelson Rada – 70 runner, strong defender, limited power, ceiling capped but everyday speed contributor.
  • Raudi Rodriguez – Levered swing, above-average power projection, plus runner, AFL breakout momentum.
  • Gabriel Davalillo – Physically maxed teenager, big raw power, uncertain hit tool, strong baseball lineage.
  • Trey Gregory-Alford (TGA) – 97–101 mph fastball, athletic 6’5 frame, slider flashes plus, raw starter profile.

🥉 Tier 3: Outside of the Impact/Everyday Targets

To see the reset of the tiers, become a Patreon subscriber at Patreon.com/prospect361.

 

2026 Player Profiles

1. Tyler Bremner (RHP, #2)

  • Highest Level: DNP ETA: 2027 Fantasy Ceiling: Top 60 SP
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: Mid-90s fastball, advanced command, polished starter profile, potential mid-rotation impact.

Tyler Bremner was the Angels’ surprise first-round selection in 2025, taken second overall and signed for $2.5 million under slot. A standout at UC Santa Barbara, he posted a 3.49 ERA with 111 strikeouts against just 19 walks in 14 starts. While the surface stats looked strong, the competition level wasn’t elite, and much of his success came from leaning heavily on a plus change-up that overwhelmed college hitters.

Bremner’s arsenal features a fastball that touches 95 MPH and the aforementioned change-up, which grades as his best pitch. His delivery is stiff, limiting the effectiveness of his breaking balls and preventing him from consistently creating good angles. Still, he throws strikes and could move quickly through the system if healthy. A sore elbow kept him out of the Fall Instructional league, raising durability questions early in his pro career.

From a fantasy perspective, Bremner profiles best as a back-end starter. The strike-throwing ability and change-up give him a floor, but the lack of a dominant fastball or breaking pitch caps his upside. He’s worth a gamble late in second rounds of FYPDs, but managers should temper expectations — his ceiling looks more like a No. 4 starter than a frontline arm, and there are higher-upside options available earlier.

 

2. Johnny Slawinski (LHP, #79)

  • Highest Level: DNP ETA: 2028+ Fantasy Ceiling: Top 40+ SP with extreme risk
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: Plus hit tool, gap power, strong approach, everyday regular upside at premium position.

Johnny Slawinski was one of the more intriguing prep arms in the 2025 draft, slipping to the third round due to his college commitment and price tag. The Angels leveraged savings from Tyler Bremner’s under-slot deal to sign Slawinski for late first-round money ($2.5 million), securing a high-upside left-hander with strong physical traits.

At 6-foot-3, Slawinski already shows solid stuff and a consistent release point. His fastball sits in the low 90s but is expected to tick up into the mid-90s as he matures physically. The athleticism and frame give him starter’s durability, and his mechanics suggest he could refine command as he develops. While prep left-handers carry inherent risk, the ingredients here point toward a potential top-of-the-rotation ceiling if everything clicks.

From a fantasy perspective, Slawinski is a worthwhile gamble in the third or fourth round of FYPDs. The upside is significant, and while the developmental path will be long and volatile, the chance at a frontline starter makes him more appealing than many of the safer, lower-ceiling arms available in that range.

 

3. Hayden Alvarez (OF)

  • Highest Level: Low-A ETA: 2027+ Fantasy Ceiling: Top 50 OF with extreme risk
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: Athletic lefty, mid-90s fastball, developing breaker, rotation upside if command holds.

Hayden Alvarez signed with the Angels in January 2025 for $650,000 and quickly emerged as one of the more exciting young prospects in the system. A 70-grade runner, Alvarez impressed with his strike-zone judgment in the DSL, and that skill carried over to the Arizona Complex League and Low-A. He struck out just 16.5% of the time while walking at a strong 13.8% clip, showing advanced plate discipline for his age.

Physically, Alvarez is a big-bodied outfielder who still needs to add strength, but his bat speed suggests future power potential. As he matures, he should begin to elevate more consistently, which will help normalize his ground ball rate and unlock extra-base impact. The combination of speed, patience, and emerging pop makes him a developmental priority for the Angels, who lack high-ceiling position players in their system.

From a fantasy perspective, Alvarez is a name to stash in deeper dynasty formats. His blend of speed and hitting ability offers a strong foundation, and if the power comes as expected, he could grow into a well-rounded contributor. While still raw, the upside is significant enough to warrant early monitoring before he gains wider attention.

 

4. George Klassen (RHP)

  • Highest Level: Triple-A ETA: 2026 Fantasy Ceiling: Closer
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: He throws hard with a plus slider.  His lack of a pitch for glove-side batters and delivery issues likely point to a bullpen arm.

George Klassen was drafted by the Phillies in the sixth round of 2023 and traded to the Angels at the 2024 deadline in exchange for reliever Carlos Estevez. Klassen brings a big fastball that averages 97–98 MPH and can touch 100 with high spin (2400 RPM). While the pitch doesn’t generate as many whiffs as its velocity suggests due to limited movement, his power slider serves as his primary swing-and-miss weapon, and he also mixes in a promising curveball.

Klassen’s control took a step forward in 2025, as he posted a career-best 3.9 BB/9 across 108 innings — a meaningful sample that suggests real improvement. He doesn’t throw a change-up, which could eventually create platoon concerns, though he actually performed better against glove-side hitters last season. Despite the progress, his delivery remains stiff and points toward a bullpen future, though the Angels have stretched him out enough to leave the door open for rotation work.

From a fantasy perspective, Klassen is an impact arm worth owning in dynasty formats. The fastball-slider combo gives him closer-level upside, and if the control gains hold, he could even stick as a starter. The risk is considerable given the delivery and lack of a third pitch, but his proximity and arm strength make him one of the more intriguing near-term arms in the Angels’ system.

 

5. Chase Shores (RHP, #47)

  • Highest Level: DNP ETA: 2026-27 Fantasy Ceiling: Closer or Top 50 SP
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: Triple-digit fastball, 70-grade slider, starter upside if change-up develops.

Chase Shores was selected by the Angels in the second round of the 2025 draft, signing for slot value after starring in LSU’s championship run. He cemented his reputation by relieving Kade Anderson in the decisive game, showcasing his ability to handle high-pressure moments. The Tigers deployed him as both a starter and reliever, giving him valuable experience in multiple roles before turning pro.

In relief, Shores can light up the radar gun, consistently reaching triple digits with a fastball and pairing it with a devastating 70-grade slider. His command remains inconsistent, and he lacks a reliable change-up, which raises questions about his long-term viability as a starter. The Angels are expected to develop him in the rotation, but given their track record, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him fast-tracked into the bullpen if the delivery and third pitch don’t come together.

For fantasy managers, Shores is an appealing gamble in the late third round of FYPDs, with upside that justifies an earlier selection in competitive leagues. His combination of college pedigree, elite velocity, and opportunity within the Angels’ system makes him a high-risk, high-reward arm. Even if he ultimately shifts to relief, the stuff is good enough to project impact value, whether as a strikeout-heavy starter or a potential late-inning weapon.

 

6. Gabriel Davalillo (C)

  • Highest Level: DSL ETA: 2028+ Fantasy Ceiling: Too soon to say
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: Physically maxed teenager, big raw power, uncertain hit tool, strong baseball lineage.

Gabriel Davalillo was the Angels’ largest international signing in the 2025–26 period, landing a $2 million bonus. His standout tool is raw power, which he has already begun to showcase early in his career. Physically, he’s maxed out at 5-foot-11 and 210 pounds, a stocky build that raises questions about long-term projection for a 17-year-old. The hit tool remains uncertain, as evaluators haven’t had enough looks at his swing to gauge consistency or approach.

Davalillo comes from a strong baseball lineage. His brother, David Davalillo Jr., has emerged as a breakout prospect in the Rangers’ system, while their father played in the minors and their grandfather, Vic Davalillo, enjoyed a lengthy MLB career from 1963 to 1980 with five different teams. That pedigree adds intrigue, as Gabriel’s physicality and power could translate if paired with even an average hit tool.

From a fantasy perspective, Davalillo is a speculative play in deeper dynasty formats. The power is real, and if his swing proves workable, he could grow into a middle-of-the-order threat. The risk is high given his body type and unproven hit tool, but the combination of raw strength and family track record makes him a name worth monitoring closely as he develops.

 

7. Denzer Guzman (SS/3B)

  • Highest Level: Majors ETA: 2025 Fantasy Ceiling: Middle/Corner Infielder with upside
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: Athletic infielder, growing power/speed blend, OBP skills, multi-positional everyday potential.

Denzer Guzman signed with the Angels in 2021 for $2 million and has been pushed aggressively through the system. He opened 2025 in Double-A, where he posted a .242/.334/.415 slash line with 11 home runs and eight stolen bases. By August, he was promoted to Triple-A as the second youngest player in the PCL, trailing only Bryce Eldridge. Guzman debuted in the majors in September, hitting .190 with a 51% strikeout rate across 13 games, though he did manage two home runs.

Athletic and projectable, Guzman’s bat speed and physicality suggest growing power as he matures. He’s a 55 runner, giving him the potential for double-digit stolen bases early in his career. While he’s unlikely ever to be a high-contact hitter, his profile points toward average to slightly below-average contact rates, a .250 batting average baseline, and an OBP roughly 80 points higher. That combination of power and speed offers a balanced offensive outlook, even if the strikeouts remain part of his game.

Defensively, Guzman is capable of handling shortstop, but with Zach Neto entrenched there, he’s spent significant time at third base in 2025. That positional flexibility could help him carve out a long-term role in Los Angeles. For fantasy purposes, Guzman’s blend of power, speed, and OBP skills makes him a potential contributor, though managers should expect volatility tied to his contact profile.

 

8. Trey Gregory-Alford (RHP)

  • Highest Level: Low-A ETA: 2028 Fantasy Ceiling: Top 40 SP or Closer
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: 97–101 mph fastball, athletic 6’5 frame, slider flashes plus, raw starter profile.

Trey Gregory-Alford was drafted by the Angels in the 11th round of the 2024 draft as a high school power arm. Assigned to the Arizona Complex League in 2025, he became a key contributor to the Angels’ championship run, posting a 3.54 ERA with 48 strikeouts and 20 walks across 53.1 innings. His performance earned him a late-season promotion to Low-A, where he continued to showcase his high-octane arsenal.

Gregory-Alford’s calling card is velocity. He routinely sits 97–98 mph and reportedly touched 101 mph in June, pairing the fastball with a slider that flashes plus potential. At 6-foot-5, he has the size and athleticism to project as a starter, though he remains raw. His slider needs more consistency in the zone, and he currently lacks feel for a change-up, which will be critical if he’s to remain in the rotation long-term.

For fantasy managers, Gregory-Alford is a classic high-risk, high-reward target. His ceiling is that of a top-of-the-rotation starter, but his floor is a high-leverage reliever — with the added risk of injury or developmental stalls. Dynasty players should view him as a worthwhile gamble, especially in deeper formats, as the combination of elite velocity and physical projection is too enticing to ignore.

 

9. Nelson Rada (OF)

  • Highest Level: Triple-A ETA: 2026 Fantasy Ceiling: Top 50 OF with fourth outfielder risk
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: 70 runner, strong defender, limited power, ceiling capped but everyday speed contributor.

Nelson Rada has been aggressively pushed by the Angels, beginning 2024 in Double-A as the youngest player in the league by nearly two years. After struggling with a .269 SLG, he returned to Double-A in 2025, where he remained the youngest player. He showed modest improvement, raising his SLG to .332 with more doubles, though his 55% ground ball rate continued to limit his impact. Despite the lack of power, the Angels promoted him to Triple-A in August, underscoring their tendency to fast-track prospects.

Rada’s standout tools are speed and defense. He’s a 70-grade runner with strong instincts in the outfield, giving him a clear path to a major league role. Offensively, however, the power remains well below average at a 30 grade. His bat speed and sturdy lower half hint at some growth potential, but his 5-foot-9 frame caps his projection. Comparisons to Jean Segura’s build are apt, though Rada lacks the offensive upside Segura showed early in his career.

From a fantasy perspective, Rada’s ceiling looks limited. Even with his speed and defensive value, the lack of power makes him more likely to settle into a fourth outfielder role. If he can reach 5–10 home runs annually, he could carve out a full-time regular spot, but dynasty managers should temper expectations. His value lies more in real-life utility than fantasy impact, making him a speculative hold rather than a priority target.

 

10. Ryan Johnson (RHP)

  • Highest Level: Majors ETA: 2025 Fantasy Ceiling: Closer
  • Last Updated: 01/06/2026
  • Tools Summary: Cutter/sweeper arsenal, inconsistent delivery, closer potential if command stabilizes.

Ryan Johnson was drafted in the compensatory second round of the 2024 draft and, true to form, the Angels pushed him aggressively by breaking camp with the big-league bullpen. He flashed swing-and-miss stuff but proved too hittable, leading to a demotion in early May to be stretched out as a starter. Back in High-A, Johnson impressed with a 1.99 ERA and a sharp 6:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio, showing he could handle a rotation role despite his reliever-like delivery.

Johnson’s arsenal is unconventional. His fastball can reach 96 MPH, but he rarely relies on it due to limited movement and susceptibility to hard contact. Instead, he leans on a cutter as his primary fastball, trading velocity for movement. His best pitch is a sweeper that generates high whiff rates, and he’s made strides with a splitter that is beginning to show effectiveness. The mix gives him multiple weapons, though his effortful, inconsistent delivery raises questions about long-term durability in the rotation.

From a fantasy perspective, Johnson is a volatile but intriguing arm. If he sticks as a starter, the sweeper and splitter could give him enough swing-and-miss upside to matter, but the more realistic outcome is a bullpen role where his stuff could play up. Dynasty managers should view him as a speculative add with closer potential, recognizing that his path to value may ultimately come in high-leverage relief rather than as a rotation fixture.

That’s player ten locked in for the Angels. Do you want to keep feeding me names one by one until we hit all 20, or would you prefer to drop the rest in bulk so I can start shaping the full three-paragraph system overview?

 

Sorry! This part of content is hidden behind this box because it requires a higher contribution level ($5) at Patreon. Why not take this chance to increase your contribution?

Leave a Reply