3 team needs for the Angels leading up to the trade deadline

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The Los Angeles Angels hold a firm position as the top American League wild card team at the All-Star break, thanks to the continued success of Mike Trout and the resurgence of slugger Albert Pujols. The Angels, however, are hunting down the Oakland Athletics in the American League West and have a few glaring needs as the trade deadline inches closer.

1. High-leverage reliever

The Angels already swapped Ernesto Frieri for Jason Grilli, and acquired Joe Thatcher to bolster their bullpen, but it still isn't postseason ready. Joe Smith has done a fine job since taking over the closer role, but recording saves in October is a whole different ballgame. The Angels could look for an experienced arm that can close out games in case Smith falls apart, like Huston Street or Koji Uehara.

Related: 3 potential trade suitors for Koji Uehara

2. No. 1 starter

A few seasons ago, Jered Weaver would have qualified as a bonafide ace. His velocity isn't what it used to be and it's hard to imagine the Angels being favored against other playoff teams in Game 1 of a potential series. Weaver simply can't match up with aces Felix Hernandez, and Justin Verlander. David Price is the most obvious name on the market who could put the Angels over the top, but two very viable options also reside in Philadelphia: Cole Hamels and Cliff Lee.

3. Third baseman

David Freese's struggles are well documented this season, as are his postseason accolades as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals. But the reality is the 31-year-old is one of the weak links in the lineup with his .253 batting average and four home runs. The Angels don't need to acquire an All-Star third baseman, but picking up a veteran player as an insurance policy wouldn't hurt.