Angels Pitcher ‘Dominant’ Amid Hot Start to 2026 Season

Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher José Soriano is off to a strong start to the 2026 season. The right-hander has given up just one earned run off a home run in three starts against the Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves this season. He has a 3-0 record and leads the Angels with 21 strikeouts in 20 innings so far this season.

Apr 6, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels pitcher Jose Soriano (59) delivers to the plate in the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images The 27-year-old has been one of the most dominant players in MLB early this season. “Soriano has been downright dominant in 2026,” MLB’s Brent Maguire wrote.

“… Soriano has always possessed electric stuff, but it’s gotten even better this year — he’s averaging 97. 5 on his fastball and generating a 33. 8 percent whiff rate,” Maguire added.

“Most encouraging, Soriano is starting to throw more strikes, a frequent problem in the past. With an elite ground-ball rate (he leads all qualified pitchers with a 66. 0 percent ground-ball rate since 2025) and improved stuff and command, Soriano has the makings of a true breakout performer.