As the saying goes “the best laid plans” seems to always apply to the LA Angels pitching staff, at least over the past three seasons. The Angels starting rotation went into 2018 with nine pitchers vying for six spots and this did not even include Barria. But things happen.
First the Angels lost Alex Meyer to a torn labrum. Then after only one start Matt Shoemaker went down and has yet to return. After only two starts J.C. Ramirez tore his UCL in his elbow. This created at least a part-time role for Jaime Barria as a 6th starter when needed.