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4w ago

Angels' Ryan Johnson to Make MLB Debut Without Minor League Experience

The 22-year-old pitcher secured his Opening Day roster spot after an impressive spring training, joining a rare group of players to bypass the minors.

Mar 24, 2025; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Ryan Johnson (81) delivers to the plate in the second inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • Ryan Johnson, drafted in the second round of the 2024 MLB Draft, will debut for the Los Angeles Angels without playing in the minor leagues.
  • He is the first player since 2020 to make an MLB debut directly from college, a rare feat in modern baseball history.
  • Johnson earned his spot with a strong spring training, recording 10 strikeouts and just one walk over 11⅓ innings pitched.
  • Known for his 100 mph fastball and hard slider, Johnson will bolster an Angels bullpen that includes veterans Kenley Jansen and Ben Joyce.
  • The Angels' decision reflects their ongoing strategy of fast-tracking top prospects, as seen with recent players like Nolan Schanuel and Zach Neto.