ANAHEIM, Calif. — In a flurry of roster adjustments, the Los Angeles Angels have made significant changes ahead of their upcoming games. The team announced the selection of Shaun Anderson’s contract and the recall of Matthew Lugo from Triple-A, while also optioning Ryan Johnson to High-A and placing Gustavo Campero on the 10-day injured list.
Anderson, who is 30, joined the Angels on a minor league contract during the offseason. Over his career from 2019 to 2022, the right-handed pitcher appeared in 63 games, including 16 starts, for five different organizations, such as the Giants and Blue Jays. Despite experiencing difficulties in his previous appearances, with a 5.84 ERA and 5.24 SIERA, he showcased a more promising performance during his stint with the Kia Tigers in South Korea’s KBO League. There, he recorded a 3.76 ERA over 14 starts before returning to the U.S. and struggling in brief appearances with the Rangers and Marlins. Nevertheless, the Angels are optimistic about his ability to add depth to a beleaguered bullpen.
Matthew Lugo, now 24, makes his major league debut after being called up to the Angels’ 40-man roster earlier this season to protect him from the Rule 5 draft. Traded from the Red Sox to the Angels last summer in exchange for Luis García, Lugo has transitioned from infield to outfield this year. While his batting statistics have not been stellar—boasting a .656 OPS—his potential is highlighted by a significant power demonstration in the previous season, when he achieved a .291 isolated power between Double and Triple-A. With Campero sidelined due to injury, Lugo is expected to serve as a crucial backup outfielder.
Campero’s injury came during an at-bat, limiting him to just five games this season. The team has retroactively placed him on the 10-day injured list due to left ankle inflammation, a diagnosis that might offer hope for a quicker recovery. Despite a lackluster .605 OPS in his limited playing time, Campero has a strong track record in the minors, making his presence missed, particularly with star outfielder Mike Trout also unavailable.
Ryan Johnson, at just 22, faced a swift ascent to the major leagues after being selected in the compensatory round of last year’s draft. Although he debuted on Opening Day 2025, his performance has been uneven, marked by a 3.60 xERA and a tendency to allow runs. His recent struggles prompted the team to option him down to High-A, a move that underscores the challenges of transitioning to the majors.
Meanwhile, 24-year-old Ben Joyce has not taken the mound since mid-April due to shoulder issues. Initially thought to be a minor setback, his situation has evolved, with further evaluation necessary next week to assess the seriousness of his injury. Joyce’s velocity and promise as a younger pitcher have made his absence particularly concerning.
As the Angels navigate these roster changes, the focus remains on solidifying their performance amid mounting challenges. With key players sidelined, the integration of fresh talent like Anderson and Lugo could prove pivotal in bolstering their chances in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.