TEMPE, Ariz. -- Blake Parker enjoyed a breakout season with the Angels last year, but he isn't resting on his laurels.
In 2017, Parker came into camp as a non-roster invitee and won a relief job after striking out 17 consecutive batters to end Spring Training. He eventually became a key cog in the Angels' bullpen, logging a 2.54 ERA over 67 1/3 innings, averaging 11.5 strikeouts per nine innings and ascending to the closer's role in September.
The 32-year-old right-hander is now the Angels' best returning reliever, but he is determined not to grow too comfortable as he prepares for his second season with the club.