Brad

Mills

Mills was 2-0 with a 1.42 ERA as a starter with Salt Lake, but the Angels would like him to get more experience pitching in the bullpen, where he’ll likely get a chance to contribute later this season. The Angels acquired him in the Jeff Mathis trade with the Blue Jays this offseason.

Williams felt tightness in his left hamstring Friday during a defensive drill. Nothing definitive was found by doctors, but he is scheduled to be re-examined by Dr. Lewis Yocum on Saturday. The 30-year-old right-hander is currently the favorite for the Angels’ fifth starter job, but Garrett Richards, Trevor Bell or Brad Mills could step into the role if he misses significant time.

Mills gives the Angels another left-handed option out of the bullpen and is likely to serve in a long relief role. The Angels acquired Mills in the Jeff Mathis trade with the Blue Jays this offseason.

Mills did all he could this spring to earn a rotation or long relief spot, allowing just two runs and seven hits over 14 2/3 innings. But, he’ll instead represent depth at Triple-A.

The injury is expected to sideline him for ''at least a week or two,’' but may not be enough to foil his chances of making the Angels this spring. Williams is competing with Garrett Richards, Trevor Bell, Brad Mills and Eric Hurley for the fifth spot in the starting rotation.

“We’re looking good,” said Downs. “We’re gaining progress. I don’t think there’s a timetable, but every day it’s getting better, so hopefully that just makes it a day sooner.” Downs avoided a DL stint when an MRI on Friday revealed no ligament damage to his right ankle. Hisanori Takahashi and Brad Mills will function as left-handed options out of the bullpen in the short-term.

Mills was sent back down to make room on the active roster for Jerome Williams. He’ll continue to serve as depth at Triple-A and should be back with the Angels at some point during the season.

He recorded two strikeouts. Acquired from the Blue Jays over the offseason, Mills has been lights-out this spring, allowing just two runs and seven hits over 14 2/3 innings. It still might not be enough to earn an Opening Day roster spot.

Mills, 26, has regularly posted impressive numbers in the minors, but the southpaw has a 8.57 ERA in 48 1/3 innings over parts of three seasons in the majors. Mathis, 28, was a non-tender candidate after earning $1.7 million with the Angels and will be considered the favorite to win the backup job behind J.P. Arencibia next season.

Mathis was almost certain to get non-tendered after the Angels acquired Chris Iannetta, so credit general manager Jerry Dipoto for getting actual value in return. Mills will look to compete for a rotation spot this season, but is best suited for middle relief at the major league level.