In the 2025 MLB Draft, the Los Angeles Angels had the opportunity to select a player similar to Garrett Crochet, known for his rapid rise to the major leagues as a left-handed pitcher. Crochet debuted during the 2020 postseason with the Chicago White Sox after developing into a strong starting pitcher following his time at the University of Tennessee. The Angels, holding the second overall pick, instead opted for Tyler Bremner because of his effective changeup, passing on a player more reminiscent of Crochet’s profile. This decision has prompted questions about the direction of the team’s pitching choices.
Potential Impact of Passing on a Fast-Tracking Left-Hander
The player many believe the Angels overlooked is Doyle, whose path to the majors appeared clear and rapid. It is widely expected that Doyle could have reached the big leagues by this season had he been selected. Like other recent draft picks from the University of Tennessee—such as Christian Moore, Nolan Schanuel, Zach Neto, Sam Bachman, and Reid Detmers—Doyle would likely have advanced swiftly through the Angels’ farm system after signing, even at a below-slot value.
Other young pitchers like Ben Joyce and Chase Silseth exemplify the team’s ability to develop late-round picks quickly. Dulled fastball traits aside, Doyle offers a 75-grade fastball from the left side, which many analysts have praised as effective for major league outs right now. Despite this, the Angels chose Bremner, whose future impact is less certain according to numerous experts.
Development Considerations and Expert Opinions on Doyle’s Role
During ESPN’s draft preview show, analyst McDaniel described Doyle as a “left-handed Lance McCullers,” indicating uncertainty about whether Doyle would ultimately serve as a starter or reliever. His current max-effort pitching delivery tends to fade later in outings, so he would likely begin as a starter in the minor leagues before transitioning to a bullpen role. The Angels’ strategy would have focused on tempering his intensity and improving his off-speed pitches to prepare him for eventual major league rotations.
Despite expectations for Doyle’s potential, the only steadfast advocates for Bremner’s future success appear to be Angels’ general manager Perry Minasian and pitching coach Tim McIlvaine. Most observers do not anticipate Bremner making an immediate impact in the minors or at the highest level soon.
Implications of the Angels’ Draft Decision for Their Pitching Future
This draft selection raises questions about the Angels’ approach to acquiring pitching talent that can make an immediate difference. Passing on a player with a profile similar to Garrett Crochet might delay the team’s ability to build a strong pitching staff quickly. With the urgency to bolster their rotation and bullpen, the choice of Bremner over a fast-tracking left-hander could influence the team’s prospects in the coming seasons. Whether Bremner fulfills the hopes placed on his changeup or Doyle’s style would have served the team better remains a subject of debate among fans and analysts alike.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Garrett Crochet’s nickname?
A. The broadcast team refers to Crochet as “The Pig” because he’s extremely dirty. Duran is sometimes nicknamed “The Angry Lizard” due to his appearance while running.