March 15, 2025 1:21 AM : Kikuchi has added a sweeper to his pitch mix, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.
Analysis: Kikuchi has worked with a four-pitch arsenal over the past two campaigns, but it appears he'll have another offering at his disposal this season. Bollinger notes that the lefty's new sweeper averages 81 mph with 16 inches of break, so it should give him a much different look than his traditional slider, which averages 87 mph with two inches of break. Kikuchi excelled in his second start of the spring Friday against the Royals, allowing one run on five hits while issuing three walks and striking out eight batters over 4.1 innings. He indicated that he'll take the mound one more time before the regular season kicks off, but the appearance will be either in a minor-league game or in a simulated setting. Kikuchi has been announced as the Angels' Opening Day starter against the White Sox on March 27.