The Los Angeles Angels lineup will have several new faces next season, but also some familiar ones that are expected to play a big role. Among them is David Fletcher, who struggled to stay on the field this year.
The 28-year-old appeared in only 61 games while dealing with multiple injuries, including a hip strain and right-hand bone bruise. He endured a second consecutive subpar season, hitting only .255/.288/.333 with 12 extra-base hits and 17 RBI in 228 plate appearances.
Fletcher is looking to return to his previous form and has prioritized adding strength this winter to prevent future injuries. “I think players, throughout their career, you’re constantly having to change and make changes either with your body or mentally. And it was a challenging year for Fletch,” Angels manager Phil Nevin said.
“The injury he had is a very difficult one to deal with, with the core injury. And I think he understands he needs to add a little bit to his body, add some flexibility but also add some strength. And it’s not something that has been his strong point in the past.”
While Fletcher is attempting to put on some muscle, he isn’t actively focused on making swing changes to help him rebound. However, those changes may come naturally from his offseason training.
“Yeah, no, I think you’re always making efforts to change your swing, to get better with your swing,” Nevin said of Fletcher. “But I think we saw glimpses of what the old Fletch was towards the end of the year.
“But at the end of the day adding a little bit of strength to him as well will help a little bit. He looked good. His shoulders looked a little broader. He just got back from Italy, too, so it might have been the wine and cheese.”
Angels sign Justin Garza
The Angels continued their busy offseason by signing right-handed pitcher Justin Garza to a one-year, non-guaranteed split contract for the 2023 season. Kenny Rosenberg was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.
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