As the Los Angeles Angels were dealing with a myriad of injuries to their infield this past June, they signed veteran utility man Jonathan Villar to a one-year contract for the remainder of the 2022 season.
The 31-year-old began the year with the Chicago Cubs and struggled to the tune of a .222/.271/.327 batting line with eight extra-base hits, 15 RBI and six stolen bases in 46 games.
Villar primarily played second base and third base with the Cubs prior to getting designated for assignment. However, the 10-year player also has experience at shortstop, left field and center field.
After clearing waivers and electing free agency, Villar joined the Angels in hopes of finding better results. His struggles, unfortunately, continued as he batted just .163/.226/.224 with one home run and three RBI in 13 games.
The Angels designated Villar for assignment after two weeks and granted him his release. He went on to sign a Minor League contract with the Seattle Mariners but did not appear in a game for them.
Villar finished the 2022 season with the organization’s Triple-A affiliate Tacoma Rainiers, where he hit a much better .283/.329/.497 with nine doubles, two triples, six home runs, 24 RBI and 10 stolen bases in 37 games.
Jonathan Villar 2022 highlight
Villar enjoyed his best performance of the 2022 season with the Cubs on April 16, when he went 4-for-5 with three RBI against the Colorado Rockies,
Villar recorded two multi-hit games with the Angels, which came in back-to-back contests against the Miami Marlins and Baltimore Orioles on July 6-7.
With the Rainiers, Villar went 4-for-4 with one triple, one home run, three RBI and a stolen base against the Angels’ Triple-A affiliate Salt Lake Bees on August 27.
2023 outlook
After a disappointing 2022 season, Villar will likely have to settle for another Minor League contract this offseason. Given his experience, versatility and previous success, he should be able to secure an invitation to big league camp in Spring Training.
Make sure to follow Angels Nation on Twitter for all the latest news and updates surrounding the Halos!
