Full Breakdown
Angels Release Former Blue Jays Star Alek Manoah
7/30/2026, 12:38:46 AM
Core Event: Release After Triple-A Struggles
The Los Angeles Angels terminated the contract of former Toronto Blue Jays All-Star right-hander Alek Manoah earlier this week. The decision follows a disastrous stint with the Angels’ Triple-A affiliate, the Salt Lake Bees, where Mano Manoah posted a 24.23 ERA over five starts.
Background & Context: From Cy-Young Contender to Reclamation Project
Manoah, 28, signed a $1.95 million guaranteed deal with the Angels in the most recent offseason, intended as a reclamation project after years of injury-related decline. His peak came in 2022 with Toronto, when he finished third in Cy-Young voting, recorded a 2.24 ERA in 31 starts and maintained a sub-1.00 WHIP. Subsequent seasons were marred by Tommy John surgery, diminished velocity, and inconsistent command, leading to a minor-league demotion in 2023.
Data & Statistics
- ERA in last five Triple-A starts: 24.23
- Hits allowed: 24; Walks: 21; Hit batters: 5; Home runs: 5
- Total innings pitched in those starts: 13
- Contract value: $1.95 million guaranteed
- Prior best season (2022): 2.24 ERA, sub-1.00 WHIP
Official Statements & Responses
Angels general manager Perry Minasian, who was hired in December, explained the organization’s rationale: the club believed Manoah could regain his former delivery and that his remaining year of control made the investment logical.
Verbatim Quotes
“I just think that’s the cycle of baseball. It’s very, ‘What have you done for me now?’” — Alek Manoah