Angels Eyeing Astros' Castoff J.P. France as Potential Pitching Fix

The former Astros starter could be a low-risk, high-reward option for the Angels' rotation.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, geometric painting depicting the motion of a baseball pitcher, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the multifaceted challenge the Angels face in bolstering their starting rotation.A cubist interpretation of a pitcher's delivery captures the complex, fragmented nature of the Angels' search for a cost-effective rotation upgrade.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Angels are looking to bolster their starting rotation this offseason, and a surprising move by their division rival, the Houston Astros, may have presented them with an intriguing opportunity. The Astros have designated right-hander J.P. France for assignment, and the Angels could look to capitalize on this change-of-scenery candidate to potentially upgrade their pitching staff.

Why it matters

The Angels have been searching for cost-effective ways to improve their rotation, and France, who had a promising 2023 season before injuries derailed his 2024 campaign, could represent a low-risk, high-reward option. If the Angels can help France regain his previous form, it could provide a significant boost to their playoff hopes in the competitive AL West.

The details

France, 28, made his MLB debut with the Astros in 2023 and posted a 3.83 ERA over 136.1 innings. However, a shoulder injury limited him to just 5 starts in 2024, during which his ERA ballooned to 7.46. The Astros have now designated him for assignment, likely signaling the end of his tenure in Houston. The Angels, who have been exploring 'project' pitchers to bolster their rotation, could view France as a potential reclamation project worth taking a chance on.

  • France made his MLB debut with the Astros in 2023.
  • In 2024, France's season was disrupted by a shoulder injury, leading to a 7.46 ERA over just 5 starts.
  • The Astros have now designated France for assignment, opening the door for the Angels to potentially acquire him.

The players

J.P. France

A 28-year-old right-handed pitcher who had a promising 2023 season with the Houston Astros before injuries derailed his 2024 campaign. He has now been designated for assignment by the Astros.

Los Angeles Angels

A Major League Baseball team based in Anaheim, California, who are looking to bolster their starting rotation this offseason.

Houston Astros

The Los Angeles Angels' division rival, who have designated J.P. France for assignment, potentially opening the door for the Angels to acquire him.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must be creative and explore all options to improve our pitching staff this offseason. J.P. France's recent designation is an opportunity we will certainly look into.”

— Perry Minasian, General Manager, Los Angeles Angels

What’s next

The Angels will likely monitor France's situation closely and evaluate whether he could be a viable option to add to their rotation. If they decide to pursue him, they would need to act quickly before another team claims him off waivers.

The takeaway

The Angels' search for pitching help this offseason has led them to an unexpected opportunity in the form of J.P. France, a former Astros starter who could represent a low-cost, high-upside addition to their rotation. While France's recent struggles raise some concerns, the Angels may view him as a worthwhile reclamation project that could pay dividends if he can regain his 2023 form.