Angels Make Roster Decision Before Astros Game

The more notable move is the DFA of Mederos. The 24-year-old was a Pacific Coast League All-Star in 2025, posting a 3.39 ERA across 16 starts with Salt Lake. Based on that success, the Angels promoted him last year; however, the results didn’t carry over. Mederos appeared in just five games for the Angels in 2025, with 17 innings, giving up 14 runs, 18 hits and 12 walks for a 7.41 ERA before landing on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation. 

Mederos was injured this spring without restrictions and was considered one of the first arms the Angels would turn to when they needed a starter. Instead, he heads to the open market before the season’s first pitch. The Angels will now have to wait and see whether Mederos clears waivers within seven days. 

Urena’s option adds another layer to what amounts to a revolving door at the back of the Angels’ bullpen. The 22-year-old made his debut just three days ago in the Angels’ Opening Day win over Houston, tossing a scoreless two-thirds of an inning in the seventh. Yet, on Saturday, he struggled to shut down the Astros, giving up six runs, zero earned, on four hits in one inning pitched. 

With Urena now heading back to Salt Lake, he will have time to work things out before getting another chance to head back with the big league club. 

Sunday’s moves paint a complicated picture for an Angels organization that has leaned heavily on young arms in recent years. Mederos and Urena represent two pitchers who were pushed too early to the majors before sticking with the team. Los Angeles is now hoping that its veteran depth can bridge the gap while its younger pitchers find their footing in the minors.