Angels' Grayson Rodriguez Eager for Healthy Spring Training

Pitcher looks to bounce back after missing 2025 season due to bone spur issues

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Grayson Rodriguez, the Angels' right-handed pitcher, is optimistic about the upcoming season after missing the entire 2025 campaign due to bone spur issues in his elbow. Rodriguez had surgery in August to remove the bone spurs and says he feels much better heading into spring training. The 26-year-old is competing for a spot in the Angels' starting rotation, which includes left-handers Yusei Kikuchi and Reid Detmers and right-hander José Soriano.

Why it matters

Rodriguez was acquired by the Angels in a trade with the Baltimore Orioles in 2024 and was expected to be a key part of their starting rotation. His health issues over the past two seasons have prevented him from fully establishing himself at the major league level, so a healthy spring training and 2026 season could be crucial for his development and the Angels' pitching staff.

The details

Rodriguez said the bone spurs had been bothering him since he was in Double-A in 2021, but the discomfort became unmanageable last spring training. He ended up missing the entire 2025 season due to the elbow issues and a related lat problem. After undergoing surgery in August to remove the bone spurs, Rodriguez says he feels much better and is excited to get back on the mound.

  • Rodriguez had surgery in August 2025 to remove the bone spurs.
  • Rodriguez has thrown two bullpen sessions so far in spring training 2026.
  • Rodriguez will likely face hitters within the first couple days of full-squad workouts, which start on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Grayson Rodriguez

A 26-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels who was acquired in a trade with the Baltimore Orioles in 2024. He missed the entire 2025 season due to bone spur issues in his elbow.

Kurt Suzuki

The manager of the Los Angeles Angels, who says there are currently no limitations on Rodriguez's workload and that the team is focused on winning this season.

Yusei Kikuchi

A left-handed pitcher in the Angels' starting rotation.

Reid Detmers

A left-handed pitcher in the Angels' starting rotation.

José Soriano

A right-handed pitcher in the Angels' starting rotation.

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What they’re saying

“Not pitching at all last year was terrible. It just makes me twice as excited for this season. Just to go out there and try to make 30 starts.”

— Grayson Rodriguez (mercedsunstar.com)

“We're coming out here to win. There's no limitations that I know right now. He feels good. He's going to pitch.”

— Kurt Suzuki, Angels Manager (mercedsunstar.com)

What’s next

Rodriguez will likely face hitters within the first couple days of full-squad workouts, which start on Monday, February 17, 2026. The Angels and their fans will be closely watching his progress throughout spring training as he looks to secure a spot in the starting rotation.

The takeaway

After missing the entire 2025 season due to bone spur issues, Grayson Rodriguez is eager to prove he can stay healthy and reclaim his spot as a top-of-the-rotation starter for the Angels. His ability to bounce back and contribute this season will be crucial for the team's pitching staff and playoff aspirations.