Los Angeles Angels have a key plan for pitcher Alek Manoah

The MLB regular season has reached the seven-week mark. While the season remains young, several teams have already established themselves with strong starts.

The Los Angeles Angels, however, have struggled out of the gate. Still, the club recently received a boost with the return of veteran pitcher Alek Manoah.

After easing Manoah back into action against the Toronto Blue Jays, the Angels watched him deliver a scoreless inning with one strikeout. The team appears to have a clear plan for his next outing on Monday.

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Reports indicate the Angels will use an opener ahead of Manoah on Monday against the Cleveland Guardians before turning to him shortly after the first inning.

The strategy reflects the organization’s effort to gradually work Manoah back into a full-time rotation role. His return comes at an important time, with the Angels sitting nine games below .500.

Manoah did not pitch in the majors during the 2025 season. He performed well in the minors before an injury stalled his path back to the big leagues.

After spending time in the minor league systems of the Blue Jays and Atlanta Braves, Manoah signed with the Angels in free agency this offseason. A hand injury delayed his debut, but he now appears ready for regular action.