Angels' Ryan Johnson scratched due to illness

Klassen to start in Johnson's place against Mariners

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:55pm

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Los Angeles Angels pitcher Ryan Johnson has been scratched from his scheduled start on Sunday against the Seattle Mariners due to an illness. George Klassen will instead take the mound for the Angels in the series finale.

Why it matters

Johnson's absence is a setback for the Angels as they look to build momentum in the early part of the season. The team will need to rely on Klassen, who has less experience, to fill in and try to secure a win against the Mariners.

The details

Johnson was set to make his second start of the 2026 season, but he is feeling under the weather and unable to take the mound as planned. Klassen, who has made a few appearances out of the bullpen this year, will get the nod instead as the Angels try to avoid a series loss to the Mariners.

  • Johnson was scheduled to start on Sunday, April 5, 2026 against the Mariners.

The players

Ryan Johnson

A pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels.

George Klassen

A pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels who will start in place of the ill Ryan Johnson.

Seattle Mariners

The opposing team that the Angels are playing in this series.

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What they’re saying

“Johnson's second start of the season will be pushed back since he's feeling under the weather.”

— Erica Weston, Reporter, Bally Sports West

What’s next

The Angels will need to monitor Johnson's health and determine if he will be able to make his next scheduled start. Klassen will look to step up and deliver a strong performance in Johnson's absence.

The takeaway

Illness-related roster changes are common in baseball, and the Angels will need to adapt quickly to give themselves the best chance of winning against the Mariners without their scheduled starter Ryan Johnson.