Career overview and profile summary
Jered Weaver is a former professional baseball pitcher best known for his tenure with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (now the Los Angeles Angels). A first-round draft pick in 2004, he debuted in MLB in 2006 and built a reputation as a durable starter with a high-velocity approach. This profile explains his trajectory, mechanics, performance profile, and key milestones with a fact-focused lens intended to remain useful over time.
Pitching profile and mechanics
Weaver stood 6'5" with a frame that paired well with a heavy, late-moving fastball. His delivery emphasized efficient lower-body drive and a clean trunk tilt, helping him generate sharp vertical movement on his fastball while keeping walks moderate. Offspeed offerings included a solid changeup and a curveball that he used to disrupt timing. His arm-side run and fading breaking ball gave him favorable platoon splits at the extremes of the strike zone.
Velocity and spin-rate context
Fastball velocity in the 94–97 mph range, paired with above-average spin, contributed to his whiff rates. The changeup, sitting roughly 80–83 mph, was his primary swing-and-miss offering in 2011 and 2012. Command was generally sound, though control challenges appeared during high-leverage situations, particularly early in his career.
MLB career timeline and teams
Weaver spent most of his career with the Angels after making his debut with the club and before finishing with brief stints elsewhere. Key transitions between organizations are noted alongside performance windows that illustrate peaks and valleys.
| Date or Period | Team | Event or Milestone | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Angels (draft) | First-round pick (16th overall) | Signaled long-term investment by the organization |
| 2006–2012 | Angels | Full-time starter, 2011 All-Star | Core of the rotation during competitive phases |
| 2012 | Angels | 15 wins, career-high 187 strikeouts | Peak statistical season |
| 2013–2018 | Padres, Royals, Rays, Astros | Later-career stops and minor-league deals | Transition to relief and reduced role |
| 2016 | Angels (return) | Brief reactivation | Short-term fill-in attempt |
Notable achievements and peak seasons
Weaver earned one All-Star selection and posted several strong single-season lineups, particularly in the mid-2010s when he balanced strikeouts with manageable walk rates. Wins and WAR estimates reflect the influence of team context and run support during those years.
- 2011: Led the rotation in wins and strikeouts while earning All-Star honors.
- 2012: Career-high in strikeouts, with a WHIP near career lows.
- Multiple seasons with double-digit wins and sub-4.00 ERA at the major-league level.
Statistical profile and metrics
Reviewing career totals and yearly splits clarifies the narrative around effectiveness and durability. While strikeouts and wins are prominent, understanding the context of innings, team support, and ballpark factors is essential for long-term analysis.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| MLB career wins | 77 | Includes spot starts and relief appearances |
| MLB career ERA | 4.17 | Adjusted for era and park effects |
| Career strikeouts | 961 | Through final major-league season |
| All-Star selections | 1 (2011) | Final roster vote totals unavailable |
Legacy and lasting impact
Weaver’s legacy is defined by his peak as a frontline starter and the contrast between early promise and later career adaptation. His time in Anaheim remains the central chapter, while the varied later stages highlight the realities of long careers in professional baseball. Evaluations of his contributions benefit from advanced metrics that account for defense, park factors, and run environment.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Weaver’s pitching change over time?
Velocity remained high into his late career, but command variance and reduced upside led to more offspeed usage and, eventually, relief roles. Durability declined after recurring back issues, altering his workload and effectiveness.
What context should be considered for his win totals?
Win totals are influenced by run support, bullpen performance, and defensive alignment. Looking at ERA+, FIP, and WAR provides a clearer picture of individual performance beyond raw wins.
Was Weaver a consistent starter?
He was a consistent starter during his peak years with the Angels, but missed significant time due to injury and inconsistency in later seasons, which affected his overall workload and impact.