Angels Reportedly Interested in Rafael Soriano Along With Carl Crawford

The Los Angeles Angels seem to be fans of the Tampa Bay Rays, as reports out of Los Angeles indicate that the team has its eyes on two Tampa Bay free agents. Now, while the Angels interest in left fielder Carl Crawford isn't exactly a revelation, the Angels have another need they can fill with a Ray.

The team is reportedly thinking about signing closer Rafael Soriano as well. According to the Los Angeles Times, the Angels believe they will have the budget to sign both Crawford and Soriano, and the two combined could cost over $150 million.

While it's not hard to see why the Angels would be interested in Crawford, the argument could be made that the team needs Soriano more. The bullpen was one of the team's downfalls last season as the Angels were kept out of the postseason for the first time since 2006, and only the third time since winning the World Series in 2002.

Adding Soriano, who led the American League with 45 saves last season with an ERA of 1.73 would be a great way to solidify that bullpen. Brian Fuentes led the Angels with 23 saves last season, but was traded to the Minnesota Twins last August. Bringing Soriano in would let the Angels move Fernando Rodney back into a setup role as well.

Should Soriano fall through, the Angels would likely look to sign somebody like J.J. Putz, Matt Guerrier, Jesse Crain or perhaps another Ray, Grant Balfour, although the latter could accept arbitration on Tuesday.