The Los Angeles Angels are looking at all potential avenues to increase depth, both on their Major League roster and in the minors. The areas of particular need at the Major League level include the infield and the bullpen. That’s why the Angels have signed multiple players — including Scott Kingery, Kevin Newman and Ryan Noda — that function as utility infielders.
The Angels are reportedly continuing down this path, agreeing to terms on a minor league contract with former American League batting champion Tim Anderson, via Bob Nightengale of USA Today:
Former All-Star shortstop Tim Anderson signs a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Angels as he tries to revive his career with manager and infield guru Ron Washington.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) January 22, 2025
The Angels have not confirmed this deal yet, but it would be a fascinating add once they do. It’s hard to describe just how much of a rollercoaster Anderson’s career has been up to this point.
Anderson impressed out of the gates with a strong 2016 rookie campaign with the Chicago White Sox. He dealt with some growing pains in his second season, posting a -0.4 bWAR in 2017 with one of the worst gloves among all shortstops that season. His .679 OPS that season only improved to .687 in 2018, but his defense improved so much — a +33 in Defensive Runs Saved — that he had a 3.7 bWAR the following year.
He then exploded in 2019. Over the next four seasons, he slashed .318/.347/.473 with an .820 OPS, winning a Silver Slugger and getting two All-Star nods. He was one of the best pure hitters in the game for that four-year stretch with the White Sox.
But he once again crashed and burned in 2023, batting .245 with a .582 OPS and a -2.0 bWAR in 123 games. The White Sox granted him free agency in 2023 and he signed with the Miami Marlins, hoping a fresh start would put him back on track.
He was even worse in 65 games in 2024. He batted .214 with a .463 OPS and had a -1.5 WAR despite being a replacement-level defender.
Now, he’s hoping the Angels can restore his bat and make him a productive player once again. The Angels are set long-term at shortstop with Zach Neto, but Neto is set to miss some time with an injury and Anderson does have some experience at second base.
This signing may not pay any dividends for L.A., but it is a low-risk move that could have the reward of saving one of the best contact hitters in the sport from 2019-22.
Angels agree to terms with Jose Quijada
The Angels have agreed to terms on a one-year, $1.075 million deal with left-handed pitcher Jose Quijada to avoid arbitration. The deal also includes a club option for the 2026 season worth $3.75 million. The Angels announced the deal on Tuesday morning.
