Projecting the Halos’ lineup in 2023
The Los Angeles Angels are one of the teams most hoping to turn things around in 2023. The team was heralded as one of the top contenders in 2022, only to end the year with a massive underwhelming result.
Despite having Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani on the team, the Los Angeles Angels were let go after a 13-game losing streak in June that shut the door on their season. The franchise-worst skid was also the personal worst hit of Mike Trout’s career.
Additionally, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has publicly stated that owner Arte Moreno is looking to sell the club by Opening Day. His team has not made the MLB postseason since 2014.
“Mike Trout ends season in game 162 with 490-foot home run for #40, his longest streak by Statcast (since 2015) Because, why not?!” – Sarah Langs
In terms of the lineup, the Los Angeles Angels will have a composition similar to last season, with some changes. The most notable offseason acquisition is outfielder Hunter Renfroe. Renfroe hit 29 home runs and 72 RBIs as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers last season. He will take over the right field spot that was occupied by Brandon Marsh last season.
At third base, Anthony Rendon looks set to return to the regular lineup. Rendon has played just 157 games for the Los Angeles Angels since coming over from the Washington Nationals before the 2020 season.
The Angels will have new life at second base after signing infielder Brandon Drury to a two-year, $17 million deal. Drury had a breakout season in 2021, winning a Silver Slugger for a career-best 28 home runs. Hopefully for the Angels, Drury will add stability to a position that had a lot of questions last year.
“BRANDON DRURY YOU ARE AN ANGEL!!!!” – Soto
Shohei Ohtani will play at least one more year with the Angels. The former MVP signed a one-year deal with the Angels to avoid arbitration. Some think he could walk for a $500 million contract elsewhere after this season.
In terms of pitching, the Los Angeles Angels will rely on youngsters Patrick Sandoval and Reid Detmers behind Ohtani. Although there are some solid young pitchers in the organization, some have questioned the depth of the Angels’ rotation.
The Los Angeles Angels need something for the fans in 2023
Angels are somewhat of an enigma. They have two of the best players alive today, but seem unable to grasp true glory in the postseason. In this critical time for the franchise, profit is more important than ever.
