Home / Sports / Angels Secure Minor League Gem: Pinazzi Dominates ERA Race
Angels Secure Minor League Gem: Pinazzi Dominates ERA Race
31 Oct
Summary
- Pinazzi posted an elite 0.84 ERA across all minor league levels.
- He struck out 103 batters in just 64 innings pitched.
- The left-handed pitcher prevented minor league free agency by contract selection.
The Los Angeles Angels have chosen to select the contract of left-handed pitcher Nicolo Pinazzi, thereby keeping him from free agency. Pinazzi experienced a meteoric rise through the Angels' minor league system after signing a deal ahead of the 2026 season.
He pitched across all levels from Class-A to Triple-A in 2026, making 48 appearances. Pinazzi maintained an outstanding collective 0.84 ERA, striking out 103 batters over 64 innings. His elite 38.9% strikeout rate and a 60.8% ground ball rate were notable achievements.
Previously, Pinazzi played in independent leagues during 2024 and 2025, and also had stints with the Cincinnati Reds organization from 2021 to 2023. The 27-year-old's slider is considered his best pitch. The Angels' decision reflects his remarkable minor league success this past season.
