Despite a lack of postseason success for the Los Angeles Angels, the team’s treasure trove of young talent is injecting hope into the local fanbase. With Shohei Ohtani (28) and Mike Trout (31) at the helm, Ontario Sports Betting Apps breaks down the budding stars under the age of 26 who are re-energizing the Angels.
1. Logan O’Hoppe, Catcher, Age: 23
Acquired in a trade for Brandon Marsh in August 2022, O’Hoppe is touted as the Angels’ future catcher. He burst onto the scene this season with a .283 average, four homers, 13 RBIs, and a .339 OBP before an injury sidelined him. The 23-year-old backstop also exhibits defensive prowess, having thrown out 38% of would-be base stealers in the minors. O’Hoppe will be under team control through 2026 becoming Arbitration eligible in the 2027 season.
2. Zach Neto, Shortstop, Age: 22
At 22, Neto made the Angels’ opening-day roster in 2023 as the starting shortstop. He was a first-round pick in 2022, 13th overall, and blazed through the minors, showcasing a mix of speed, range, and a solid bat. He’s already turning heads in the MLB, batting .237 with a .314 OBP and showcasing highlight-reel defense. Neto is already in the MLB record books for being hit-by-pitch seven times in his first 15 major league games.
3. Mickey Moniak, Outfielder, Age: 25
A former first-overall pick by the Phillies in 2016, Moniak has revived his career with the Angels. Since being acquired in a trade involving Noah Syndergaard, Moniak has been on fire, hitting .302 with four homers in 15 games. His re-emergence adds depth to the Angels’ outfield. Miniak went to high school in nearby Carlsbad.
4. Patrick Sandoval, Pitcher, Age: 26
Sandoval is solidifying his spot in the rotation with a repertoire that includes a nasty changeup. With a 2.91 ERA last season and a current 4.14 ERA, he is positioning himself as a future ace, especially in the potential absence of Shoei Ohtani. Sandoval’s contract runs through 2027, giving the Angels a reliable arm for years.
5. Reid Detmers, Pitcher, Age: 23
As the 10th overall pick in 2020, Detmers arrived in the MLB a year later. Despite some struggles, his underlying stats, like a FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) of 3.78, signal potential. His four-pitch mix, highlighted by a curveball with a spin rate in the 90th percentile, makes him a promising starter for the Halos.
6. Edgar Quero, Catcher, Age: 20
As the Angels’ top prospect not yet in the MLB, Quero is a tantalizing talent. A catcher like O’Hoppe, the 20-year-old is a switch-hitter known for his advanced plate discipline. In the minors, he boasts a slash line of .307/.389/.491. His defensive versatility could see him feature in different positions.
In summary, with these young guns and a core of established stars, the Los Angeles Angels are crafting a formidable squad that could soon end their postseason drought. Keep an eye on Anaheim as this youthful talent continues to mature and make waves in the big leagues.