The Los Angeles Angels announced they have signed veteran outfielder Jake Marisnick to a Minor League contract, with an opportunity to compete in Spring Training.
The 33-year-old bounced between three teams during the 2023 campaign, appearing in 46 games with the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers and Detroit Tigers. He posted a .237/.280/.408 slash in 83 plate appearances.
Being used primarily as a defensive replacement, the right-handed outfielder has provided plus grades when placed at all three outfield slots.
The Angels have some offense with Taylor Ward, Mickey Moniak and Mike Trout patrolling centerield, but the opportunities for late-game defense are a spot that Marisnick could shine if given the chance.
He joins Willie Calhoun, Travis MacGregor, and José Marte as the recent Minor League contract signings by the Angels. Filling out their roster with buy-low candidates who could be role players if things click right.
Where could the Angels improve with their outfield group
With Trout holding down centerfield, Angels general manager Perry Minasian could opt to bring in a more seasoned, fourth option for the outfield if he doesn’t want to tab Jo Adell with that job.
Adell hasn’t panned out while with the Angels, seeming to ride a rollercoaster between progress and regression. That has put an emphasis on requiring more veteran help at the big league level, instead of having youthful options.
Ward slots in left, while Mickey Moniak enjoyed a breakout performance in 2023, he’ll have a crack at a lion’s share of the reps.
But if the Angels wanted to bring in a veteran on a one-year deal, there are several options including Adam Duvall, Kevin Kiermaier, and even a reunion with Randal Grichuk, are in play.
That would leave Adell without much wiggle room, as the Angels could move him in a trade, but without Minor League options available, he’s in a difficult spot.
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