"The Los Angeles Angels have reached the limits of their payroll flexibility, according to general manager Jerry Dipoto, meaning any acquisitions in the coming months likely would have to come via trades rather than free agency.

"We've had a fairly significant level of economic change the way our roster's come together," Dipoto said. "We've addressed the areas we wanted to address coming into this offseason. If there are ways to help our club along using creative ways, we'll do that."

After signing Albert Pujols, C.J. Wilson and LaTroy Hawkins this winter, the Angels' payroll figures to rise roughly $20 million from its $142 million level in 2011, which was a franchise record. The Angels have recently been linked to ex-Philadelphia Phillies closer Ryan Madson, among other free agents, but Dipoto indicated such moves are unlikely."