The Los Angeles Angels head into their March 29, 2025, matchup against the Chicago White Sox with optimism and a clear mission to turn the page on a disappointing 2024 season that saw them finish 63-99 and well out of playoff contention, despite having superstar talent on the roster. After another offseason of restructuring, the Angels are focused on redefining their identity and achieving consistency across both offense and pitching, two areas that plagued them throughout last year. The lineup, which struggled with injuries and run production in 2024, now features notable reinforcements such as slugger Jorge Soler, who brings proven power from the middle of the order and is expected to play a crucial role in revitalizing the offense. Soler’s presence will complement the efforts of Mike Trout—still one of baseball’s most feared hitters when healthy—as well as Brandon Drury and Logan O’Hoppe, both of whom offer reliable production and versatility. The Angels will also look for further growth from young players like Nolan Schanuel and Zach Neto, two highly regarded prospects who are being counted on to contribute consistently at the major league level. On the pitching side, the Angels made it a priority to solidify their starting rotation, which was one of the weakest in the league last year, adding veteran Kyle Hendricks to provide stability and leadership alongside returning lefty Tyler Anderson. Hendricks, known for his pinpoint control and cerebral approach to pitching, is expected to eat innings and keep games competitive while helping guide the club’s younger arms. Anderson, who had an up-and-down 2024, is looking for a bounce-back year and has reportedly improved his command and off-speed pitch effectiveness heading into this season.

The bullpen, anchored by closer Carlos Estévez and key setup man Matt Moore, has shown flashes of excellence and will be a focal point for manager Ron Washington, who was brought in during the offseason to bring experience, leadership, and accountability to a team that has long lacked cohesion. Washington’s managerial presence is already being felt in camp and the clubhouse, as he implements a more aggressive base-running philosophy and emphasizes fundamental defensive play—two areas where the Angels lagged behind in recent seasons. Entering this game against a rebuilding White Sox squad, the Angels have a valuable opportunity to stack early wins, test their revamped rotation, and let their offense find rhythm against a pitching staff still trying to find its footing. Though the Angels were just 31% ATS on the road last season, early matchups like this against struggling teams will be critical in setting the tone for a turnaround year. With Shohei Ohtani no longer in the organization, the Angels are determined to prove they can win with depth, experience, and contributions across the board rather than relying solely on generational talent. A strong showing against Chicago, particularly from their new-look lineup and starting pitching, would send a message that the Angels are serious about contending in 2025 and capable of exceeding expectations in a wide-open American League West.