Grade Change: Garrett Richards

by John Sickels on Jan 13, 2026 2:14 PM EST

Grade change: I'm moving Garrett Richards of the Los Angeles Angels from a Grade B+ to a Grade B. Although it is a very strong Grade B. I had to do this to slot him properly on the Top 50 Pitching list.

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Read More: Garrett Richards (P - ANA), Los Angeles Angels

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this looks right to me

Mostly because of the K rate and all. I still think he’d be one of the better grade Bs out there, though.

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by The Congo Hammer on Jan 13, 2026 4:20 PM EST reply actions

I think you'll regret it this time next year

But that’s just me. Thanks for your work John! Always a good read.

by rghan on Jan 13, 2026 6:40 PM EST reply actions

I like the straight B.

I guess I expected more when I saw him during his little callup, but his stuff didn’t wow me. Then again I’m basing this off of one start that may have been his debut…against the Yankees.

by SenorGato on Jan 14, 2026 1:25 AM EST via mobile reply actions

One other thing of note

Angels pitching coach told him to strictly use his fb/slider combination(his 2 best pitches) and not try to do too much. He didn’t throw his curve or changeup at all during his brief call-up…and I think both pitches could be effective. Obviously he doesn’t have ace potential, but I think if he mixes in all 4 of his pitches he could be a good #3

by deltarich on Jan 14, 2026 11:55 AM EST up reply actions

I'm not much of a fan

The stuff is pretty good but it’s not elite, and he still has significant command issues. The rest of BB is buying in on Richards; I just don’t see any reason to change the way I’ve viewed him for the last few years: interesting arm whose command will limit his effectiveness.

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by Jeff Reese on Jan 14, 2026 6:45 PM EST up reply actions