Andy Messersmith played his first five seasons in the Majors, beginning in 1968, where he threw for 81.1 Innings with a 4-2 Record.  It was the start of what was a solid career.

Messersmith became a starter the following year, winning a combined 27 Games in 1969 and 1970 and leading the American League in H/9.  1971 was viewed as Messersmith's best year in California, where he was fifth in Cy Young voting, made the All-Star Game, and won 20 Games.  He only won 8 Games in 1972 but had a lower ERA and WHIP and was the victim of poor run support.

The Angels traded Messersmith to the Dodgers after the 1972 Season, and he would become more known for challenging, winning the reserve clause, and ushering in free agency.  Messersmith had a 59-47 Record with a 2.78 ERA as an Angel.