Angels' Grayson Rodriguez Shares Injury Update Before Blue Jays Game

The Los Angeles Angels acquired starting pitcher Grayson Rodriguez for outfielder Taylor Ward in a trade with the Baltimore Orioles during the offseason. Rodriguez, however, has yet to pitch for the Angels as he deals with a shoulder injury. In fact, Rodriguez has not pitched in an MLB game since the 2024 season because of injuries. He is working his way back, though.

On Monday, the right-handed pitcher faced hitters for the first time since spring training. Rodriguez shared an update after facing hitters ahead of the Angels' home game against the Toronto Blue Jays, via Rhett Bollinger.

"Grayson Rodriguez said he felt good facing hitters for the first time since Spring Training. Called it a big step. He threw roughly 30 pitches with one up-down so essentially two innings. So he still needs to build up," Bollinger reported.

Grayson Rodriguez is about to face hitters at Angel Stadium pic.twitter.com/S8sQgRc874

— Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) April 20, 2026

Rodriguez is only 26 years old and he features intriguing potential. The Halos have needed pitching for years so the offseason trade was understandable.

In 2024, Rodriguez pitched to a respectable 3.86 ERA across 20 starts with the Orioles. He could certainly make a significant impact in Anaheim once he does return from injury. It is uncertain when he will end up returning, but Monday was an encouraging development for him.

The Angels will provide further updates on Grayson Rodriguez's injury recovery as they are made available.

Angels' Pitching in 2026

The Angels have endured pitching underperformance in recent years. LA's pitching rotation is performing at a respectable level so far this season, however.

The Angels are 12th in ERA, fourth in batting average against and third in strikeouts. It remains to be seen if the pitching can perform at a high level all season, but it has been a strong start to the new campaign.

Jose Soriano has been especially impressive. His ERA currently sits at 0.28. He has also struck out 39 hitters to lead the team.

Reid Detmers (3.57 ERA) and Jack Kochanowicz (3.47 ERA) have also pitched well. The Angels could potentially snap their postseason drought if the pitching can hold up. Grayson Rodriguez's return will go a long way toward helping the ball club reach the postseason for the first time since 2014.

Detmers will get the start on Monday night against the Blue Jays in Anaheim. First pitch is scheduled for 9:38 PM EST as the Angels look to win their 12th game of the 2026 MLB season.

Related: Angels Make Move Before Yankees Game

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This story was originally published April 20, 2026 at 8:48 PM.