"The Angels aren't expecting the second coming of Francisco Rodriguez, the 20-year-old phenom who was called up in September 2002 and was a dominant bullpen force during the team's World Series run.

But they think right-hander Garrett Richards could provide a significant boost to their playoff hopes and sagging relief corps, which is why they moved the hard-throwing 23-year-old to the bullpen after activating him from the disabled list Monday.

"His future is obviously as a starter," Manager Mike Scioscia said of Richards, who made two August starts for the Angels before suffering a right groin strain. "But this month, he could have more of an impact in the bullpen if his stuff plays as well as we think it will."

With Fernando Rodney and Hisanori Takahashi struggling, the list of relievers Scioscia trusts to hold late, narrow leads has been reduced to three: Jordan Walden, Scott Downs and Bobby Cassevah.

But with a 95-mph fastball, sharp slider and changeup, and experience as a closer at the University of Oklahoma, Richards could be a fourth option over the final four weeks if he pitches aggressively and throws strikes."