After multiple years in the Miami Marlins organization, Magneuris Sierra signed a Minor League contract with the Los Angeles Angels in late July of 2022. In his sixth year in Major League Baseball, he would be playing for his third club trying to rebuild his value.
The 26-year-old hit a solid .297/.358/.437 with seven home runs, 45 RBI, 49 runs scored and 22 stolen bases in 311 plate appearances with the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees, which led to his eventual promotion.
The Angels couldn’t find consistency in their outfield with many unknowns surrounding the health of Mike Trout and Taylor Ward, and the absence of production from their left-field slot, so they gave Sierra a chance.
Sierra made his debut with the club on July 24, recording a two-hit game two nights later including two steals. However, his light bat proved to be a subpar addition to manager Phil Nevin’s lineup, posting a .165/.200/.242 slash in 96 plate appearances in his time with the Angels during the 2022 season.
Sierra struggled at the plate with his lack of power and ability to get on base by means of a hit or working a walk, which also hindered his threat of stealing a bag.
The Angels would go on to designate Sierra for assignment on Sept. 28, and he would elect free agency following the conclusion of the regular season.
Magneuris Sierra 2022 highlight
On Sept. 6 against the Detroit Tigers, Sierra came up to bat with a shot to win the game for the Angels in the bottom of the 10th inning. With Andrew Velazquez in a position to score, he laid down a bunt single, plating the winning run.
It was Sierra’s first career walk-off hit.
2023 outlook
His pure athleticism and time in MLB should be enough for Sierra to receive interest as a Minor League signee with an invite to Spring Training, but as of late January, he remains unsigned.
The 26-year-old from San Cristobal, Dominican Republic probably still has a bit more to do in pro ball, it’ll just take one club to take a flier on him.
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