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    Inside Pitch reacted to Chuck for a blog entry, Los Angeles Angels 2023 Draft Review - Quotes on the draftees from Scouting Director Tim McIlvaine   
    By Taylor Blake Ward, AngelsWin.com Staff Writer
     
    1st Round, 11th Overall: Nolan Schanuel, 1B, Florida Atlantic
    Schanuel was the best performer across Division-1 baseball in 2023, barely missing out on the slash line Triple Crown, leading the nation in on-base percentage, falling just .002 short of the batting title, and .047 short of the slugging title which went to a player at the high-elevation Brigham Young. Regardless of falling short of a fun title, Schanuel put up video game numbers slashing .447/.615/.868 with 71 walks to 14 strikeouts and 19 home runs to boot, leading to plenty of first-round chatter and the eventual 11th overall selection by the Angels. Schanuel's offensive operation begins with an unorthodox setup with a high hand load and exaggerated leg kick (though not to point of Zach Neto, Josh Donaldson, Bo Bichette, etc.). It's a load you'd likely see more overseas in Asia, but Schanuel does a fine job of keeping his body and swing in sync throughout the process putting him in a good hitting position at separation. As he comes out of his load, Schanuel has a balanced uphill swing from the left side with some explosion to the ball. He has shown good barrel control with above-average bat speed, giving him an above-average or plus future hit tool and with the present physical maturation to his six-foot-four, 220-pound frame with natural strength average-or-better power projection. Schanuel is a highly disciplined hitter who has an excellent eye for the zone, who rarely chases out of the zone and can punish pitches in the zone, with an approach that helped carry him into first-round status. There were questions about Schanuel's actual hit tool -- particularly with a wood bat -- after hitting just .200 in 125 at bats in the Cape Cod League in 2022 and coming from a mid-major conference with limited velocity. However, Schanuel had a realization that something was off and had an eye doctor appointment that led to an Astigmatism diagnosis and a corrective contact placed in his right eye in January of 2023. Schanuel noted his vision went to four-dimensional status from that point and he felt like a new hitter which should give more confidence in his long-term ability to hit. He also has a short track record against some major programs, albeit coming from midweek games and lesser on-mound prospects. An average runner, Schanuel has enough speed to keep catchers honest but likely will never be a double-digit base stealer. The Angels will hold Schanuel to first base at least until instructional league where he could see time in the corner outfield. Schanuel is a good defender at the bag and has some athleticism that could lead to corner versatility, with personal comments about hoping to be a utility man at the next level with time at third and second base, though the Angels did not express those similar feelings initially. With so much promise on the bat, Schanuel is a high-floor type collegiate with outstanding performances under his belt and hopes that everything will translate to become a middle-of-the-order hitter in the future. For the comparison crowd, it's challenging to tab Schanuel down to a modern-day player but there was a sound comparison made by Joe Doyle of FSS Plus in a Nathaniel Lowe profile (see comp below).
    Nate Lowe/Nolan Schanuel comparison

    Munetaka Murakami/Nolan Schanuel comparison

    Tim McIlvaine on Nolan Schanuel: "Nolan did a lot of things that we really liked and that we sought out to look for. He's got power. He can hit. He knows the zone. He's very patient. He doesn't get himself out. He rarely ever strikes out. Took a lot of walks this year, had a lot of extra-base hits, and can hit the ball over the wall. He's a good player. He's a really good baseball mind when you sit down and talk to him. He understands hitting. He understands his swing. He understands what he's trying to do at the plate and what makes him successful. There's a lot of pieces that go into it but first and foremost we liked his bat. We think he's going to be a pretty good hitter for us... This guy is wired right. I think he's a really good competitor. He really wants to win. He's made himself better and he's going to make us better. He really makes you like him."
    Nolan Schanuel 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 289 PA, .447/.615/.868, 70 R, 19 HR, 64 RBI, 14 SB, 24.6 BB%, 4.8 K%
    Note: Carlos Collazo of Baseball America has reported that Schanuel has signed with Angels for slot value, $5,253,000, which is a new record bonus for any Angels draftee by $583,000 (Reid Detmers, 2020).
     
    3rd Round, 79th Overall: Alberto Rios, 3B, Stanford
    Rios spent his first two years at Stanford as a bullpen catcher who received eight total plate appearances as a pinch-hitter, reaching base once. His junior season, the Cardinal put him in their starting lineup and all he did was hit, and hit, and hit, to a point of outperforming his first-round teammate Tommy Troy and earn him Pac-12 Player of the Year honors. Rios sets up with a rhythmic hand load and great balance as he turns and extends. He has a compact cut from the right side with some quick explosion and a great ability to find the barrel letting his natural strength drive the ball to all fields. He has solid zone coverage and pitch recognition, which aids to his hitability where he rarely chases and has shown the ability to hit higher velocity and adjust to off-speed. With his solid pitch recognition, Rios is a disciplined hitter with zone awareness and should be able to keep his swing-and-miss in check consistently aiding to his hit tool which projects above-average. There is some thud in his compact six-foot, 203-pound frame and his natural strength with average-or-above bat speed has allowed him to frequently tap into his power which plays to all fields and easy projection to see 15-20 home runs annually. There is plenty of faith in Rios' ability to hit, but that same faith is not shared in the other facets of his game. Rios is a below-average runner who is more of a grinding baserunner and though he has some active feet in the outfield, his limited speed and fringy arm make him a below-average fielder in left field where he spent the majority of his time with Stanford in 2023. The Angels opted to take him away from the outfield and selected him as a third baseman -- where he played as a prep -- where his feet may play a bit better but still with a below-average projection (the Angels worked him out at second base during a private workout). Rios has spent some time catching and has some raw receiving skills that make him a fascinating development project behind the dish, though the Angels will hold out until at least Instructional League before putting him there, if they do. Rios has shown a strong arm in glimpses, but it is mostly graded as fringy or below while his throwing mechanics would need attention to stick at catcher with the modern game leaning to more base stealing. If Rios can catch, his profile could have a meteoric rise as an above-average hitting catcher, but the likelihood is that the Angels will need to focus one defensive home whether it be third base, second base, left field, or catching (likely in that order) to capitalize on a special bat that could play as an everyday regular.
    Tim McIlvaine on Alberto Rios: “It’s a neat story with him. He was recruited by (Stanford). Got there and just really couldn’t get into the lineup. For him – he kept working hard, kept working at it. Something seemed to click for him in the fall and he really started swinging it well. Once they put him in there this spring, they couldn’t get him out of the lineup, and he ended up being Pac-12 Player of the Year. We followed him pretty closely. We have a guy that lives in Northern California, Scott Richardson, he’s around there a lot. He started calling me a little early on in the spring and was like, ‘Hey this guy, he didn’t really play, but he’s really good. He’s really swinging it well.' So, we kind of kept tabs on it and he didn’t stop and just got better seemingly every game this spring, so we ended up watching him a lot."
    Alberto Rios 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 293 PA, .384/.485/.707, 69 R, 18 HR, 73 RBI, 5 SB, 13.0 BB%, 14.3 K%
     
    4th Round, 111th Overall: Joe Redfield, OF, Sam Houston
    Redfield is a toolsy outfielder from Sam Houston who had an impressive Western Athletic Conference performance and carried that into the Cape Cod League with a brief, but moderate performance. Staying low and compact throughout his operation, Redfield has short levers that keep him inside the ball with a quick and compact left-handed swing. There's strength in his six-foot-two, 200-pound frame and present bat speed that lets him tap into some fringe-average power when he catches the ball out front. Redfield controls the strike zone well, particularly the inner half, and has shown the ability to make contact on higher velocity in the zone without expanding on off-speed. He's an above-average runner who can cover enough ground in the outfield to man all three positions with some ease and be a modest base stealer. His profile fits a fourth outfield type with some hitting upside. On a fun note, Redfield's father (Joe) played one game for the Angels on June 4, 1988 (0-for-2) and was drafted by the Mets in the ninth-round of the 1982 MLB Draft with the Mets amateur scouting director being Joe McIlvaine, the father of current Angels amateur scouting director, Tim McIlvaine.
    Tim McIlvaine on Joe Redfield: “He’s a well-rounded player. Center fielder. Above-average runner. Hit over .400 this year with 15 homers, 15 stolen bases. He had 100 hits I think and was probably top ten in all of collegiate baseball in hits. He’s a guy that has tools and can touch a lot of different tools. He’s a well-rounded player that can go out and not do anything different. He goes out and just plays his game. He’s gonna get his hits, gonna hit some doubles, gonna hit a few homers, gonna steal some bases, gonna play center field. We’re excited about the athleticism and the excited about the kid too.”
    Joe Redfield 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 300 PA, .402/.485/.683, 81 R, 15 HR, 56 RBI, 15 SB, 11.3 BB%, 11.3 K%
     
    5th Round, 147th Overall: Chris Clark, RHP, Harvard
    Clark joined the Crimson rotation this spring after spending time in relief with spot starts and missed bats at a premium. Clark operates in the low-to-mid 90's touching 97 with some life to his glove side and firmness in the upper velo echelons. His fastball command and shape allowed it to be hit more often than his velocity and general opponent lesser talent would suggest, with refinements needed to get the most of its plus potential. He throws an average low 80's slider with some depth-and-sweep to his glove side when executed properly and could grade out higher with some added power. There was some touch-and-feel addition to the slider in the form of a harder cutter this spring that could play off or scrap his slider entirely as a power breaking fastball-breaker. Clark has a firm changeup in the bag, but it's a below-average offering in its' current state. Clark is a solid on-mound athlete with plenty of arm and physical strength in his six-foot-four, 195-pound frame, with the athletic markers to see improved command through development, though there's some whip in his delivery that will need to be refined. His general two-pitch arsenal and high-compete level would lean to a power relief outlook where his fastball and breaker could tick up and play, but the Angels will send him out as a starter in development with belief he can stick in the rotation with a backend future.
    Tim McIlvaine on Chris Clark: “Our scout Drew Dominguez has been talking about (Chris) for years as a guy we need to get. We gotta get this guy in the system. He's wired right. He's a starter. He's smart. Last year it just didn't work out -- he was eligible last year. Drew stayed on him and was still jumping up and down about him today. We walked out in the hallway after calling (Chris) and Drew was jumping up and down so excited that we got him. It’s great. It’s fun to see that kind of passion. It’s way easier for us to take a guy when our scouts have that sort of conviction with players.”
    Chris Clark 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 65.2 IP, 4-4, 4.93 ERA, 0 SV, 8.4 H/9, 4.4 BB/9, 12.7 K/9
     
    6th Round, 174th Overall: Camden Minacci, RHP, Wake Forest
    Minacci was a two-year closer at Wake Forest, who were the top-ranked program in the nation throughout the spring up until their elimination by LSU in the College World Series. Minacci was frequent on the national stage and was one of the most renowned big-moment relief pitchers in the draft class. He comes right at hitters with a lively mid 90's fastball that has been tapped at 99, with significant ride and some run to his arm side. He pairs his fastball with a mid-to-upper 80's power slider with depth that he works away from right-handed hitters and in on the hands of lefties. There's power and tunnel to the slider making it a highly effective swing-and-miss offering with consistent plus grades attached. Everything comes from a highly active delivery with effort, and though Minacci has been able to harness the command of his fastball and slider, he is a relief only prospect. Minacci has a big-moment mentality and serious aggression on the mound, which was present in big-conference and postseason play with the aptitude and arsenal for high-leverage relief. In general, Minacci is what you see is what you get when it comes to development and projection with minimal physical development to his six-foot-three, 215-pound frame, with enough current feel to his arsenal to move him quickly through the minors and let his fiery attitude and ability dictate his future relief role. Note: Carlos Collazo of Baseball America has reported that Camden Minacci has signed with Angels for $328,500.
    Tim McIlvaine on Camden Minacci: “He brings a different kind of energy and fire and excitement to him that other guys just feed off of. He comes at guys with a big fastball. He's got a good slider. He’s not afraid of anybody and he just comes right at guys. It’s a good fire that a lot of those backend relievers seem to have. I love his intensity. I love his competitiveness. I love the way he comes at guys. I don't see that changing at all with his approach once he gets into pro ball."
    Camden Minacci 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 32.1 IP, 0-1, 2.78 ERA, 13 SV, 7.2 H/9, 2.8 BB/9, 12.8 K/9
     
    7th Round, 204th Overall: Cole Fontenelle, 3B, TCU
    Fontenelle took a roundabout way to Fort Worth after stops at Washington and McClennan CC before turning into a big-moment bat for the Horned Frogs in 2023. A switch-hitter, Fontenelle stays simple is his load with some drift in his hands. He has strength in his hands to manipulate the barrel and cover the entire zone from the left side where the physical strength in his six-foot-three, 205-pound frame lets him produce some bat speed and near above-average power. There's a bit more slap tendency and flat plane when swinging from the right side that seems more focused on making hard contact, though it can get groundball dominant. Though it's not alarming, there are some chase concerns with Fontenelle's approach, while strength-based refinements to his hand load should cut down some in-zone swing-and-miss. He's an average runner with aggressive/instinctual baserunning making him an honest base stealing threat who could possibly snag double-digits bags. More out of necessity with Brayden Taylor (Rays first-round pick) and Tre Richardson (Cardinals 15th-round pick) manning the left side of the TCU infield, Fontenelle spent the majority of his time this spring at first base. The Angels selected him as a third baseman where he could profile with good athleticism for someone his size and a fair arm and footwork, with a chance of gaining some versatility in left field where he's spent some time in the past. There are tools to like in the package, and with some swing and decision refinements, there's offensive ceiling to tap into, with some high-energy leadership traits to carry his tools and teammates.
    Cole Fontenelle 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 294 PA, .352/.473/.640, 66 R, 14 HR, 58 RBI, 20 SB, 15.3 BB%, 17.0 K%
     
    8th Round, 234th Overall: Barrett Kent, RHP, Pottsboro HS (TX)
    Usually more suited for the third-round or over slot early teen picks, Kent is the prototypical prep arm with a projectable frame and current feel for pitching that teams are constantly enticed by. Tall and strong at six-foot-four, 215-pounds, Kent has shown a pro-ready four-pitch arsenal and ability to land each for strikes, with plenty of refinements to tap into his big on-mound upside. Kent will work in the low-to-mid 90's, upwards of 97, with some ease early in outings but hasn't been able to hold premier velocity beyond a few innings. At its peak, there is liveliness to the fastball with good angle to the plate coming from a high three-quarter slot and some life to his arm side. With physical maturity and development, there should be some ticks added to his fastball with more frequency in maintaining that velocity. He has a promising slider with a fastball plane and late depth away from right-handers, regularly flashing above average with command of the breaker. He also has a curveball in the bag with a more high-arching break that shows potential but doesn't have enough current feel to label above fringe-average. Like most prep pitchers, Kent hasn't had to incorporate his changeup often, but he's shown fair feel for the pitch with arm speed and some fade to his arm side. Most of Kent's arsenal plays well fading to his arm side while he'd be better equipped to find the left half of the zone to make his full arsenal more well-rounded. Kent is an easy operator with a clean arm stroke and athleticism in the delivery, which aids his ability to locate pitches and throws strikes at a high clip. There's plenty of development focused on the physical side and ability to work all quadrants of the zone which may take time but could be vital to tapping into his groundball-focused rotation upside. Kent is committed to Arkansas and will take the bulk of the Angels remaining bonus pool beyond Schanuel and Rios.
    Tim McIlvaine on Barrett Kent: "He's really good. He's a guy we talked about a little bit earlier in the day and things didn't really go his way, so we were able to grab him. High school kid from Texas. Right-handed pitcher. Big kid. Six-four. Long, loose. Four pitches. We think he's a starter. We're really excited to have him. We did a lot of work on him this year. He kind of stumbled out of the gates and found his footing about halfway through and finished up really strong. He came to a workout we had in Dallas and threw for us there. We really got to spend a lot of time with him and figure out what he was like as a kid. We couldn't be more excited to have him."
    Barrett Kent 2023 high school statistics via MaxPreps: N/A
     
    9th Round, 264th Overall: Chase Gockel, RHP, Quincy University
    Gockel was a grad student at Quincy this spring after spending scattered time with Charleston Southern and Illinois State. Praised for his off-season strength-and-conditioning, Gockel saw a velocity spike over the fall and winter that carried into the spring. His fastball now sits in the mid 90's, up to 98, with some heaviness down in the zone and some lively cut up in the zone with more of a "let it ride" control-over-command feel for the pitch. The fastball dominated Division-2 hitters and he was near untouchable because of it. He'll incorporate a mid-70's slider that adds some shape and life when he throws it in a higher velocity range, but it has a fair amount of inconsistencies that make it a fringier offering that could be a development focus. There's some violence in Gockel's near over-the-top delivery and command will have to improve for him to be more than a power thrower.
    Tim McIlvaine on Chase Gockel: “Big arm from Quincy. He came to our workout in Dallas and threw really well there. He's been up to 98 in the past and was 93-95 for us at the workout. It’s a good arm and he’s had some struggles before that but seemed to kind of figure it out a little bit. He got a little bit stronger this past year and he threw the ball really well for us.”
    Chase Gockel 2023 NCAA Divison-2 statistics: 32.0 IP, 3-0, 2.25 ERA, 4 SV, 3.4 H/9, 5.6 BB/9, 16.0 K/9
     
    10th Round, 294th Overall: Chris Barraza, RHP, Arizona
    Barraza is a fifth-year senior with a fastball dominant arsenal. Everything with Barraza starts and ends with his fastball which is thrown in the low-to-mid 90's with significant carry and was near unhittable this spring. It's a dominant pitch with carrying traits that he has shown the ability to command, particularly up in the zone, and get chases above the eye level. He has a power slider with a soft and short break making it hittable and predictable if not tunneled well off his fastball. Undersized at six-foot with a two-pitch (maybe one-pitch) arsenal and aggression with the fastball, Barraza has some quick-moving relief-only traits but will have to reshape his breaking ball and find better command of it as well. Arizona has seen a flourish of pitchers hit pro ball and see the shape of their pitches -- whether it be the fastball or breaking pitch -- be altered which has helped them find more success with professional development, most notably with the Angels: Chase Silseth. The same could be said of Rays 2023 sixth-round selection, T.J. Nichols.
    Chris Barraza 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 29.0 IP, 5-2, 6.52 ERA, 1 SV, 11.5 H/9, 5.0 BB/9, 12.1 K/9
     
    11th Round, 324th Overall: John Wimmer, SS, Rick Hill HS (SC)
    Wimmer is an athletic South Carolina prep shortstop with some offensive spark plug upside. He has a whippy swing from the right side that is more compact in batting practice and loosens up in game where he's a bit more level-plane barrel focused, giving him more all fields contact. He can get pull-happy with his quick hip turn and swing over top of pitches when getting more intentful, which is fairly typical from a prep hitter, and that steadily improved over this spring as he fared well against some more challenging prep arms. Wimmer has some present average-or-better bat speed and ability to hit the ball with authority. There's plenty of room to fill into his six-foot-one, 170-pound frame giving some power projection though it may be more hard-contact to the gaps rather than over-the-fence prowess with some fringe overall power projection which plays more to his gap-to-gap approach. Wimmer is an average-or-better runner with athleticism, standard actions, and footwork to stick at shortstop through development, and see how he adjusts to the game getting quicker with a potential move to second base where his arm would play well. There are a lot of rudimentary aspects to Wimmer's overall game that come standard with most preps, but there are some upside tools to see a big league regular at a premium position as he fills out physically. Wimmer, one of two prep selections by the Angels, is committed to The Citadel.
    Tim McIlvaine on John Wimmer: "Really athletic high school shortstop. A guy we kind of targeted and knew fell a little bit because of the price tag and we had an opportunity to make this marriage work, and we did that. He's a great kid. He can really play defense. The bat is coming along well. There's good life in the body. He came to our workout in Atlanta, and we met him there and watched him against everybody else and sized up against everybody else. We're really excited to get him. We think there's a lot of ceiling left with him."
    John Wimmer 2023 high school statistics via MaxPreps: N/A
     
    12th Round, 354th Overall: Sam Brown, 1B, Washington State
    Brown transferred to Washington State for his junior year after two decent years at Portland. He has an active load that creates rhythm in his uphill left-handed swing. The bat plane and natural strength packed into his six-foot-two, 218-pound frame give him some moderate power projection while his ability to find the barrel allow him to tap into his power, but also take away from some intent making him more of a balanced average-and-power guy. Brown shows a balanced approach with some minimal swing-and-miss and chase. Brown is a good defender at first base with some athleticism to test him in the corner outfield, but his final destination will be first. He was named to the All-Pac-12 team in 2023 after hitting .374 with a 1.155 OPS and 11 home runs, with above-average offensive career numbers. Steady performers like Brown tend to be good bets through development, and the offensive tools could give some first base platoon upside.
    Tim McIlvaine on Sam Brown: "Strong left-handed hitter from Washington State. It's a good-looking swing with some pop. That's what we're hoping he just continues doing is hitting. That's why we took him. We're hoping he just continues to hit."
    Sam Brown 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 241 PA, .374/.481/.674, 38 R, 11 HR, 58 RBI, 5 SB, 11.2 BB%, 13.7 K%
     
    13th Round, 384th Overall: Riley Bauman, RHP, Abilene Christian
    Bauman transferred to Abilene Christian after a lackluster freshman campaign at Navarro College and made four appearances with the Wildcats before requiring Tommy John surgery, which made him miss the entirety of the 2023 season. The Angels are banking on on-mound athleticism and a power arsenal shown post-surgery. Bauman, a six-foot right-handed pitcher, was working 94-97 with his fastball as recently as June, featuring notable run to his glove side and carry up in the zone. He was up to 98 in a private workout with the Angels. Bauman shows some feel for two off-speed pitches in a fringy short two-plane slider and a curveball he's added power and shape to from previous years, with both breakers sitting in the low 80's. The command of his off-speed will need to improve at the next level. Bauman has a loose arm and showed decent command in recent workouts though his track record indicates he'll need to seriously refine his command and control with some problematic walks and pitches in the zone being hammered, but he has the athletic markers to see this improve. There are a lot of questions about Bauman's overall package with a limited track record and a healthy return should answer some of those questions quickly, though his command may waver initially as he gets back to some body and motion memory. The Angels plan on using Bauman as a starter due to his athleticism and three (or four) pitches, but with his limited size and a power arsenal with limited track record of strikes, he looks more like a reliever in projection.
    Tim McIlvaine on Riley Bauman: "Athletic right-handed pitcher. He's coming off of Tommy John but our guy, K.J. Hendricks, had known him from the past before that and kind of caught up with him while he's been in the rehabbing process. It was coming out of his hand really good. He's got three or four pitches. We think he's going to be able to start. He's athletic and been up to 98 recently in a workout for us. We think there's a lot to tap into here."
    Riley Bauman 2023 NCAA Divison-1 statistics: N/A (Did not pitch due to Tommy John surgery)
     
    14th Round, 414th Overall: Zach Joyce, RHP, Tennessee
    One of the best feel-good stories of the entirety of the 2023 Draft, Zach Joyce is an easy to cheer for reliever, particularly, for Angels brass. The twin-brother of Angels hurler, Ben, was a pitching prospect during his time at Walters State in 2019 and 2020 and transferred to Tennessee with his brother but not before going down with Tommy John surgery. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Joyce was diagnosed with clinical depression and anxiety and walked away from baseball to address his mental health. Missing the entirety of the 2021 and 2022 seasons due to Tommy John recovery and his diagnosis, Joyce was open about his depression and anxiety and found assistance through therapy, leading to a return to the mound in 2023 with Tennessee. Joyce came out of the gate throwing 95 and touched as high as 98 over the spring with some life to his fastball, paired with a mid-80's slider/cutter. Subtracting the unicorn-like velocity, the younger Joyce brother has similar collegiate traits to Ben with a two-pitch arsenal based more on velocity and separation while working around the zone, with size in his six-foot-four, 225-pound frame to continue holding velocity. There's untapped upside in the college reliever with a small track record, with hopes of having a pair of power relief brothers near the middle-to-backend of the bullpen.
    Tim McIlvaine on Zach Joyce: "The first time I saw both (Zach and Ben) they were both at Walters State. I want to say it was 2019, maybe. I was at a tournament at Lipscomb University and there was a junior college tournament going on there and I saw both of them that day and I thought both of them were really talented. Ben kind of took off a little quicker and then Zach had Tommy John and had to recover from that, then took the year off. I saw him this year at Tennessee and he looked great. He was throwing the ball really well. Spinning the ball really well. Then the velocity started climbing back up. He was up to 95, 96, 97, 98 even. He's back. It's great to see after taking a little bit of time but he's got the injuries behind him. He has the (depression and anxiety) behind him. It's all full throttle ahead for him now. We are really excited to have him. The story of it being with Ben and being his brother is great but that was a guy that regardless of any connections to the Angels, I was targeting him as a guy that could help us for sure. The story now with Ben could be awesome at some point as well but he's a really talented kid. We're excited to get him -- lucky to get him."
    Zach Joyce 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 10.1 IP, 1-0, 4.35 ERA, 7.8 H/9, 1.7 BB/9, 14.8 K/9
     
    15th Round, 444th Overall: Caleb Ketchup, SS, Lipscomb
    Ketchup is an undersized do-it-all athlete with an up-the-middle future. Ketchup has a simple stroke from the right side that stays compact through contact. Listed at five-foot-eleven and 160-pounds, there is a lot of physical development remaining though he has some wiry strength while his size may limit him to fringy or below-average power and be more of a gap-to-gap hitter limiting his offensive impact. With an approach more oriented to contact, there are no glaring issues in his walk or strikeout rates with some natural mid-major collegiate balance. Ketchup is a gifted defensive shortstop with excellent range, with feet that operate like a one-cut halfback (which he played in high school as well as defensive back). He can throw from multiple angles with some mustard... (shoutout Jeff Johnson for this awesome joke) giving confidence to his long-term ability at the premium position. He is a plus runner who has more gusto once underway and is aggressive on the base paths making him a constant stolen base threat. Pending the growth of his offensive impact there are some carrying tools here between his defense and speed with table setting traits through development and some bench and versatility upside.
    Tim McIlvaine on Caleb Ketchup: "Athletic kid. Younger body still but room for some strength. Hit 17 homers this year and stole over 30 bases. Can play shortstop. It's a guy we're pretty excited about. He can do a lot of different things. Once he puts a little more strength on the body, I think we'll see a little bit more from him."
    Caleb Ketchup 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 306 PA, .255/.375/.534, 68 R, 17 HR, 45 RBI, 31 SB, 14.4 BB%, 17.6 K%
     
    16th Round, 474th Overall: Rio Foster, OF, Florence-Darlington Tech (SC)
    Foster is a high-ceiling junior college corner with strong athleticism and physicality. He hits from the right side with an active setup and a loose-and-whippy cut. There are some moving parts to his swing which should be a development focus to tap into his power projection aided by present strength and bat speed and should only improve as he fills his athletic six-foot-four, 205-pound frame. Foster is an above-average runner with aggression on the base paths and will steal his fair share of bags. He's an athletic fielder who should be able to cover ground in the outfield and has played on the dirt in the past. The hit tool will have to improve for Foster to reach any ceiling but power and speed profiles like this tend to balance out during development as they focus on other traits of their game. Scouts praise Foster's work ethic and the athleticism is evident giving some confidence to tapping into some upside.
    Tim McIlvaine on Rio Foster: "He's kind of a power and speed type with some ceiling to him. Still gotta get to where the hit tool is going to play, and I think it will because he's a smart kid. He's a hard worker. He's got some ceiling. There's room to put some really good weight on him and get him stronger."
    Rio Foster 2023 NJCAA statistics: 212 PA, .386/.481/.665, 60 R, 10 HR, 53 RBI, 39 SB, 11.8 BB%, 13.2 K%
     
    17th Round, 504th Overall: Logan Britt, RHP, Abilene Christian
    Britt has been around prospect circles for some time after showing big power projection as a Texas prep. He's spent his entire collegiate career as an outfielder for three years at Texas A&M and this last spring with Abilene Christian, but the Angels are planning on sending him out as a pitcher after throwing at a private workout. It's an immensely short track record of Britt's pitching as he only faced three batters on the mound while in college, walking two and allowing a hit to the other. Britt has a strong arm with accuracy from the outfield, but little is known about him on the mound. In high school, Britt touched 90 as a pitcher and threw over 98 from the outfield (via Perfect Game, 2019).
    Tim McIlvaine on Logan Britt: "He's a guy who's been a position player for most of his career and pitched a little bit in the past. For us he's going to pitch. We worked him out in a workout before the draft and really liked the way he looked. He was probably going to be drafted as a position player if we didn't take him as a pitcher but we're going to put him on the mound and turn him loose."
    Logan Britt 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 0.0 IP, 3 BF, 2 BB, 1 H, 1 ER
     
    18th Round, 534th Overall: Dalton Kendrick, LHP, Memphis
    Kendrick was a four-year reliever for Memphis and served as their closer his junior and senior seasons. He's a deceptive hard-throwing southpaw with a lively low-to-mid 90's fastball and snappy curveball. He has a track record of throwing strikes and could be a quick mover through development. His 12 saves ranked ninth across Division-1 baseball in 2023 and earned First Team All-ACC honors.
    Tim McIlvaine on Dalton Kendrick: "He was a closer for Memphis. Struck out 55 in 45 innings this year. I think he was leading the country in saves for a little while. I don't know if he ended up with the lead, but he comes in and just gets outs which is what we like."
    Dalton Kendrick 2023 NCAA Division-1 statistics: 45.1 IP, 2-3, 3.38 ERA, 12 SV, 5.6 H/9, 2.6 BB/9, 10.9 K/9
     
    19th Round, 564th Overall: Raudi Rodriguez, OF, Georgia Premier Academy (GA)
    Rodriguez is a Dominican-born outfielder who performed well at prep showcases and against some premier Georgia prep arms. He swings with intent from the right side with a loose swing and level bat path and strength to manipulate the barrel. There is present strength in the six-foot, 190-pound profile and plenty of power projection with his mold and cut, though he is currently a gap hitter with loud metrics. His timing isn't always consistent, and his long swing may lead to a questionable hit tool and serious refinement to tap into his offensive upside. He has an aggressive approach. Rodriguez is a plus-plus runner who utilizes that speed in the outfield field and backs it up with a plus arm that would profile well in right field though there's a non-zero chance of him staying a center fielder due to his athleticism. There are plenty of tools to dream on, especially pending how he physically matures, with the hit tool being the focus and a speedy bench outfielder profile. Rodriguez is committed to South Carolina and would be a draft-eligible freshman in next year’s draft.
    Raudi Rodriguez 2023 HS statistics via MaxPreps: 129 PA, .352/.473/.485, 25 R, 1 HR, 14 RBI, 9 SB, 16.3 BB%, 19.4 K%
     
    20th Round, 594th Overall: Mac McCroskey, SS, Oral Roberts
    McCroskey is a redshirt-senior who bounced around the JUCO ranks from Crowley CC (TX) and Eastern Oklahoma State before landing at Oral Roberts for two years with his high school middle infield counterpart, Blaze Brothers, and helped lead the Golden Eagles to their second trip in program history to the College World Series. McCroskey has a flat-plane swing from the right side and is focused on making hard contact while altering his path to get uphill and drive the ball over the fence on occasion. He's a sound middle infielder with athleticism and a good internal clock giving some faith to sticking at the premium position. Late day three seniors don't always have the sexiest profiles and blend through development but there's enough to like in the general tools to see some bench upside in McCroskey. McCroskey's leadership qualities have been praised by his college coaches and teammates and was a drawing off-the-field tool for the Angels.
    Tim McIlvaine on Mac McCroskey: "Shortstop from Oral Roberts who was in the College World Series. He's a really good leader with an infectious approach, personality. He can play shortstop and has some ability with the bat as well."
    Mac McCroskey 2023 NCAA Divison-1 statistics: 318 PA, .314/.392/.520, 67 R, 14 H, 64 RBI, 17 SB, 10.7 BB%, 14.5 K%
     
    UNDRAFTED FREE AGENTS
    To the point of finalizing this this recap, the Angels have signed nine non-drafted free agents to minor league contracts. I wrote over 900 mini-reports on players with the majority of unselected being high school players, but three of the Angels NDFA's did appear in my pre-draft notebook. Landon Wallace, an outfielder from West Virginia, was a steady three-year performer between WVU and Nevada who is an above-average runner with a rhythmic right-handed swing and good feel for the barrel with some fringe power projection and versatile outfield defense. Will Christopherson, a right-handed pitcher for Iowa, is a physical reliever with a low 90's fastball with cut and a sweeping slider that could be a plus swing-and-miss weapon. Caleb Bartolero, a catcher from Troy, is a fifth-year senior with right-handed power upside and a strong arm behind the plate but lacks the actions for long term confidence and a 1B/LF outlook where the bat will have more focus. Andy Blake, a shortstop from Columbia, was the Ivy League Player of the Year in 2023. The current Angels undrafted free agents look as such:
    - RHP Will Christopherson, Iowa
    - RHP Ben Thompson, Troy
    - LHP Cameron Tullar, Western Kentucky
    - C Caleb Bartolero, Troy
    - C Peter Burns, Boston College
    - C Caleb Pendleton, Florida Atlantic
    - IF Will McGillis, South Carolina
    - SS Andy Blake, Columbia
    - OF Landon Wallace, West Virginia
    Tim McIlvaine on undrafted free agents: "It's tough when (the draft) is only 20 rounds. There's plenty of talented kids that can certainly be drafted and can go out into pro ball and endless stories of Major Leaguers that have made it after the 20th round. In preparing for the second half of (the third day), rounds 16-20, we had it all kind of lined up. All the names of guys we maybe would have drafted, we still consider signing them after the draft. We've already made contact with a lot of guys trying to get that process going and I think we'll sign a handful of guys after the draft as well. You have to have it ready to go because there's 29 other teams that have seen these guys too. We have targets that we've liked. We have a few guys that I think we've already reached out to and talked pretty far down the road with already. As soon as that 20th round is over you have to be on your toes and ready for it because a lot of these kids are going to get calls from everybody. With it being 20 rounds there are certainly guys that are deserving of being drafted and for us it's just figuring who is the best fit for us."
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    Inside Pitch reacted to Chuck for a blog entry, AngelsWin.com's 2023 Los Angeles Angels Top-30 Prospects   
    THE 2023 ANGELS TOP 30 PROSPECTS
    By the AngelsWin.com Prospect Posse
    Another year in the books, and more disappointment for Angels fans. But there’s always the farm system and the future it foretells, right? This year that glimmer of hope may be growing somewhat brighter.
    The top of this list has some legitimate talent, with two or three players appearing on top 100 lists, and several more contenders for the top 100 by the end of 2023. Furthermore, the top 30 is filled out with a nice group of upside prospects, as well as some interesting depth pieces that could help the Angels major league team as soon as 2023.
    One further note on the farm as a whole, and its overall trajectory over the last few years. In 2015, Billy Eppler inherited a farm system devoid of talent. Gradually he added talent, a lot of it high upside but volatile. Over the last few years, we’ve seen a lot of that talent not pan out the way we hoped, yet there’s still been some positive developments, and with a continued, steady stream of incoming talent during the Perry Minasian years.
    To further this point, here’s a take from our own Scott Allen:
    Scott Allen's Take:
    The Angels have recently got a lot of help from what I like to call, "post-hype prospects." These are the players that were once viewed as darlings of a developing system, but for one reason or another, have not cracked the major league egg yet.
    Patrick Sandoval, Jose Suarez, Jaime Barria, Jared Walsh and Luis Rengifo all took an additional year or two to develop, beyond their time being featured on these lists. And they all have become quality major leaguers. 
    In 2023, we could be in store for more of these unexpected breakouts. Matt Thaiss may emerge as a key depth piece for the Angels. He could see considerable time playing 1B, backing up Jared Walsh who has some uncertainty of his own. Thaiss could also see time at 3B to spell Rendon and most notably, catcher, where as a backup he's got a pretty potent bat, comparatively.  
    Chris Rodriguez also falls into this category. If healthy, he can be a very good major league pitcher, regardless of role. I hope the organization gives him a chance to start because he might truly be something special there, the sort that starts playoff games. If not, he's already shown he can carve up major league hitters in relief.
    Mickey Moniak wasn't our prospect, but he too is a post-hype player that can find success with the Angels. Getting him out of Philly might have been the best thing for his career, as we saw flashes of potential after the deadline. Either he projects as a very skilled 4th outfielder, or maybe it all comes together in time.
    Jo Adell's own prospect status is a thing of the past. We don't know the Angels off-season plans, but it would not surprise many if he spent some more time in AAA before finally figuring it out at the big league level. He certainly has more than enough potential. 
    Griffin Canning is finally healthy, and while he's served a lot of time in the Angels rotation, his spot is no longer guaranteed. He's flashed his potential on several occasions, and comes with the pedigree of being a former early draft pick and top 100 prospect. 
    Lastly, I think we shouldn't forget about Jose Soriano. He's got an arsenal similar to Chris Rodriguez, and after multiple surgeries and a tour through Pittsburgh's system rehabbing after being selected in the Rule 5 Draft, Soriano is finally back healthy. A move to the bullpen has already taken place, and given that the Angels bullpen could use all the help it can get, giving Jose Soriano a chance to make good on his potential seems like a good idea. He could be a game changer, if he performs up to his ability. 
    Format: In parentheses, I’ve included the player’s position, 2023 season age, and likely destination to start the year. The ranking range is the range in which our Prospect Posse ranked the player.
    Without further ado, here are your AngelsWin.com Top 30 Prospects for 2023…
    1. LOGAN O’HOPPE (C, 23, MLB)

    2022 Rank: In Phillies organization
    Ranking Range: Unanimous #1
    2022 Stats: 104 games, .283/.416/.544, 26 HR (AA - Phillies/Angels); 5 games, .286/.375/.286 (MLB)
    It was painful to see Brandon Marsh go (and then improve somewhat with the Phillies and make it to the World Series), but O’Hoppe’s AA performance softened the blow; aside from his excellent overall numbers, he hit .306/.473/.674 in 29 games as a Trash Panda. Our consensus #1 pick, O’Hoppe has a good chance of not only starting the year in a platoon with Max Stassi but winning the starting job outright by season’s end. He’s really the full package: plate discipline, power, and solid to plus catching skills. Even better, coaches rave about his mental make-up and pitchers love him. One thing to note about O'Hoppe: If you count him as homegrown, he's probably the best catching prospect in Angels history.
    Full interview with Logan O'Hoppe
    2. ZACH NETO (SS, 22, AA)
    t
    2022 Rank: Amateur/Prep
    Ranking Range: 2-3
    2022 Stats: 37 games, .299/.377/.476, 5 HR  (A+/AA)
    The Angels’ 2022 1st round pick (13th overall) didn’t miss a beat in 37 minor league games, most (30) in AA Rocket City. Neto projects to hit for average, steal bases, maybe walk a bit, and with a bit of pop – plus solid or better defense at SS.  As Neto says, he plays with “swag” and brings it on both sides of his game.There is some concern that his unconventional approach at the plate will yield little power, but some scouts remark on his surprising pop. That did not appear to be the case last year, as he hit 4 HRs in 30 AA games last season. With less than 2 strikes, Neto uses a high leg kick to help whip up power. But, with 2 strikes, he takes a smaller stride and a faster approach to the ball. Defensively, Neto is a true SS, but could end up on 2B depending on what the Angels do this offseason. Either way, he should at least become a quality regular major leaguer,  and maybe even more than that!
    Full Interview with Zach Neto
    3. CHASE SILSETH (SP, 23, AAA/MLB)

    2022 Rank: 22 (+19)
    Ranking Range: 2-4
    2022 Stats: 15 GS, 83 IP, 2.28 ERA, 27 BB, 110 SO (AA); 28.2 IP 6.59 ERA, 12 BB, 24 SO (MLB)
    Silseth started the year as the 11th round pick from the 2021 all-pitcher draft, and thus the 11th pitcher chosen by the Angels in that draft, and ended it as the top ranked pitching prospect in the organization, at least according to us. Silseth utterly dominated AA hitters, earning him multiple  call-ups throughout the year. His first start on May 13th was extremely impressive, and we all had a collective "Where did this guy come from?" moment: He gave up only 1 hit in 6 IP, and flashed potent stuff, including a fastball that hit 97-98. But things got rockier from there, and then he was up and down for the rest of the year, only down from August onward, where he continued to dominate AA. He throws very hard, but also very straight, and his secondary pitches still need work. Silseth is likely to start the year in the minors, but will definitely see major league starts in 2023, and may end up in the rotation by the second half. Silseth has the stuff to be a #1 or #2, and with more movement on his pitches, will be one.
    Full Interview with Chase Silseth
    4. EDGAR QUERO (C, 20, A+)

    2022 Rank: 10 (+6)
    Ranking Range: 2-5
    Stats: 111 games, .312/.435/.530, 17 HR, 12 SB, 73 BB, 91 SO (A)
    Look at those numbers and remember that this is a 19-year old kid in A ball. He posted those numbers while 2 years younger than the rest of the league! Quero got us noticing him last year, when he showed pop and a great plate approach in Rookie ball, though merely held his own in a short 10-game A level call-up. Not only did Quero improve, he exploded and dominated A level pitching. The Angels played it safe and kept him there all year; with O’Hoppe in the mix, they won’t be rushing Quero, who should replace Max Stassi as O’Hoppe’s backup in 2025 or so. After so many years of not having any catching prospects, the Angels are now in the enviable position of having 2 top tiered catching prospects, who can dominate on both sides of the ball. It is very easy to see Quero as a top 100 prospect, especially if he continues to build on his 2022 season.
    Full Interview with Edgar Quero
    5. KY BUSH (SP, 23, AAA)

    2022 Rank: 6 (+1)
    Ranking Range: 4-7
    Stats: 21 GS, 103 IP, 29 BB, 101 Ks, 3.67 ERA (AA)
    An impressive first full season, Bush has earned a place on the 2023 major league depth chart. Scouting reports vary on Bush, but most agree that he could be a solid mid-rotation starter if not better.  Bush has a four-pitch mix with an over-the-top delivery. His fastball sits at 94 mph and touches 96 mph with late riding action. Bush's secondary pitches are an above-average slider, a slow curveball and changeup that's a work in progress. The changeup development and fastball command will really determine whether Bush is a solid middle of the rotation starter that you can count on or backend guy. Ky Bush tired a bit in the second half, but finished strong. With improved development and workload, the dominance he showed in the first half should continue.
    Full Interview with Ky Bush
    6. KYREN PARIS (SS, 21, AA)

    2022 Rank: 3 (-3)
    Ranking Range: 4-6
    Stats: 105 games, .241/.363/.417, 12 HR, 33 SB (Rk/A+/AA)
    If there’s one prospect for whom the national and AngelsWin perception differs the most, it is Kyren Paris. As you can see, none of our eight authors ranked him lower than #6, while most publications don’t even have him in the top 10. Paris started very slowly in A+ ball, before eventually heating up, earning a late season call-up to AA Rocket City, where he crushed the ball, hitting .359/.510/.641 in 14 games. Paris has game changing speed, a good approach at the plate and some pop in his bat. He’ll start 2023 back in Rocket City and is one to keep an eye on. Defensively, Paris could stick at SS, as he has good range, a decent arm, and sets himself up well to be in position to make the plays. However, many of the people we talk to feel like he could be a starting 2B with good range, again, depending on whatever moves the Angels make.
    Full Interview with Kyren Paris
    7. WERNER BLAKELY (3B, 21, A+)

    2022 Rank: 23 (+16)
    Ranking Range: 6-11
    Stats: 55 games, .295/.447/.470, 5 HR, 24 SB (A)
    Blakely was considered very raw, young, and toolsy when the Angels drafted him in the 4th round of 2020, a notion that his first professional season in Rookie ball illustrated quite well, as he hit .192/.339/.284 in 44 games. But he exploded in 2022; most impressively, he walked 45 times in 55 games, displaying impressive speed and a bit of pop. After splitting 2021 between 2B, SS, and 3B, the Angels moved him to 3B this year, which is likely his future position. Blakely has the potential to add more power as he fills out. Settling into one defensive position, along with getting more regular reps, should help. Blakely has been limited in previous seasons by some freak injuries (broken hamate bone, broken arm). As he gets more experience, he will move up on prospect lists.
    Full Interview with Werner Blakely
    8. DENZER GUZMAN (SS, 19, A)

    2022 Rank: 7 (-1)
    Ranking Range: 7-11
    Stats: .278/.346/.402 in 234 PA (Rookie/A).
    The Angels’ top international signing from 2021, with a $2 million dollar signing bonus,  came stateside this year, and held his own in Rookie ball (.287/.341/.422). His numbers were relatively modest, but for his age are quite good, and he has a plethora of skills and a lot of development potential as a future big leaguer. Still very much a work-in-progress, with a wide range of possible outcomes. However, in his limited time, Guzman has done enough to leapfrog over several other shortstop prospects, and he should stick at that position for now. With the ability to hit the ball to all fields, Guzman should develop more power as he matures.
    Update: After a brief stint with Inland Empire and solid play at instructional league in 2022, Guzman returns to Inland Empire for his first full season where his arm and glove have already impressed, and his bat is beginning to turn heads as well. - @taylorblakeward
    Full Interview with Denzer Guzman
    9. SAM BACHMAN (SP, 23, AA)

    2022 Rank: 2 (-7)
    Ranking Range: 7-16
    Stats: 12 GS, 43.2 IP, 3.92 ERA, 25 BB, 30 SO (AA)
    It was a disappointing year for 2021’s first round pick, and more than a little concerning: Bachman continued to struggle with injuries, and when healthy looked very different from the flamethrower the Angels had drafted a year before; his fastball had trouble leaving the low 90s. For context, consider that the major league average is now close to 94 mph. Meaning, Bachman—who was clocked at over 100 mph in college—didn’t even pitch at average velocity in 2022. His future is contingent on whether that velocity returns, and even if it does we should probably accept that he’s almost certainly destined for the bullpen. If he can stay healthy and his velocity comes back, he could be an elite closer; if not, he might not have much of a major league career. There is still a shot that he sticks in the rotation, and for now, the Angels are planning to stick with him there. But, his fastest path to the majors, and possibly his best outcome, could be in the pen.
    Full Interview Sam Bachman
    10. NELSON RADA (CF, 17, Rookie)

    2022 Rank: 18 (+8)
    Ranking Range: 8-13
    Stats: 50 games, .311/.446/.439, 27 SB (DOSL Rookie).
    We’re told to take low minor league numbers with a grain of salt, the more so with those from the Dominican league. But it is hard not to be impressed with that line from Rada, especially considering that he was 16-years old. And, it’s hard not to notice all the praise that Rada is getting from the people we talk to, both inside and outside of the organization. The most impressive element is not even mentioned above: He walked and struck out 26 times in 50 games, implying, at least, the potential for a strong plate approach which, coupled with impressive athletic tools, particularly his power,  gives Rada a very high ceiling. Hopefully we’ll see him state-side in 2023, but it is still way too early to know just how good this kid can become. If we do see him stateside, he will be one of the youngest players in whatever league he’s in, so, that will have to factor into whatever production he makes in 2023.
    Update: Nelson Rada was the Angels top international signing in 2022, signing for $1.8 million, and immediately showcased his skillset in the Dominican Summer League hitting .311 with an .885 OPS. The Angels are now challenging the young outfielder with an aggressive assignment to Low-A for his first full season where he looks to be a consistent hitter despite being one of the youngest players in professional baseball. - @taylorblakeward
    Full Interview with Nelson Rada
    11. ADRIAN PLACENCIA (IF, 20, A+)

    2022 Rank: 12 (+1)
    Ranking Range: 8-14
    Stats: 104 games, .254/.387/.427, 13 HR, 21 SB (A)
    Prospects junkies will remember the ACL Rookie team at the beginning of last year, with a talented group of position players all starting strongly. Most tailed off, including Placencia, but he’s also one of the few who had a noticeably better 2022 season. Placencia is a bit of an anomaly, because on one hand he’s supposed to be a spray hitter who will hit for average, on the other evidently he struggles with heat, and has somehow managed to walk a fair amount. But improvement over last year is always a good sign.
    12. BEN JOYCE (RP, 22, AA)

    2022 Rank: Amateur/Prep
    Ranking Range: 10-14
    Stats: 13 IP, 2.08 ERA, 4 BB, 20 SO (AA).
    After watching Joyce’s debut in 2022, who looked more polished than advertised, it is hard imagining how he slipped to the 3rd round. The guy has one of the fastest pitches in professional baseball having been clocked at 105 and, if he can maintain the surprising control he displayed, is going to be in Anaheim sometime in 2023 and an elite reliever within a couple years.
    Full Interview with Ben Joyce
    13. JAKE MADDEN (SP, 21, A+/AA)

    2022 Rank: Amateur/Prep
    Ranking Range: 8 – Not Ranked
    Stats: NA
    The Angels’ 3rd pick and 4th rounder last year didn’t play a professional game, so there’s not a lot to go on. Scouting reports speak of high upside, though, with a three-pitch arsenal and plenty of velocity, though he’ll need work on his location. Lots of upside, and already has Tommy John surgery on his resume.
    14. JEREMIAH JACKSON (IF, 23, AA)

    2022 Rank: 5 (-9)
    Ranking Range: 13-19
    Stats: 87 games, .215/.308/.404, 14 HR (AA)
    When you look at Jackson’s trajectory over the last few years, there’s glimmers of Brandon Wood: A surprising breakout season in the low minors, followed by declined performance at higher levels, with a big drop off last year. He also seems somewhat injury prone, playing only 138 games over the last two seasons. His prospect status is falling, though he still has upside to dream on, but he needs to both stay healthy and make better contact.
    15. CADEN DANA (SP, 19, A)

    2022 Rank: Amateur/Prep
    Ranking Range: 12 – Not Ranked
    Stats: 6.48 ERA, 8.1 IP, 1 BB, 8 SO (Rookie/A)
    A rare pitcher drafted by the Angels out of high school, Dana was picked on Day 3 of the draft along with his brother, Casey. Where Casey is a college outfielder likely to max out as minor league depth, Caden shows a lot of promise. He’s pretty much the classic pitching prospect, with a strong frame, a good curveball, projectable fastball hitting 95, and a work-in-progress changeup. His size allows him to throw downhill and induce a lot of ground-balls. Lots of upside here who, especially if he adds a notch and a bit of movement to that fastball and works on his changeup, could jump to the top of the Angels pitching prospects.
    Update: (April 12th, 2023) "The projectable right-hander with a power breaking ball and mid 90's fastball returns to Inland Empire for his first full season where he looks to stay consistent following his first start where he missed bats at a premium with eight strikeouts over five innings, which included a look at his new changeup." - @taylorblakeward
    Full Interview with Caden Dana
    (2023)
    16. COLEMAN CROW (SP, 22, AAA)

    2022 Rank: 17 (+1)
    Ranking Range: 15 – Not Ranked
    Stats: 23 GS, 128 IP, 4.85 ERA, 35 BB and 128 SO (AA)
    Crow put up solid numbers in his first full season in AA. Right now he projects as a #5 starter or long reliever, unless he can add a bit more velocity. He gives the Angels another solid depth option, at the least. One of our writers compared him to Scot Shields - similar smaller body, similar fastball velocity that can play up into the mid-90s if needed. With an elite slider, he has a solid floor of at least a plus middle reliever.
    17. JORDYN ADAMS (CF, 23, AA)

    2022 Rank: 9 (-8)
    Ranking Range: 15 – Not Ranked
    Stats: 120 games, .238/.317/.332, 4 HR, 33 SB (A+/AA)
    Oh, how the mighty have fallen. A few years ago, first-round pick Jordyn Adams was mentioned in the same breath as top prospects Jo Adell and Brandon Marsh, with some even liking his upside more. With his blazing speed (he earns a rare true 80 grade) and defense, he has a major league future, although whether his hitting develops enough to be more than a Jarrod Dyson remains to be seen. While his statistics have stagnated, the word in the organization is that he’s coming along, though it is hard not to have an “I’ll believe it when I see it” attitude. Adams is a good example of how we should temper our expectations with prospects, but also not take a “star or bust” perspective. Regardless of whether he learns to hit, he’s going to provide major league value at some point.
    Full Interview with Jordyn Adams
    18. LANDON MARCEAUX (SP, 23, AA)

    2022 Rank: 21 (+3)
    Ranking Range: 14 – 25
    Stats: 18 GS, 90.2 IP, 2.98 ERA, 16 BB, 73 SO (A+/AA)
    Like Crow a couple ranks higher, Marceaux isn’t a “sexy” pitching prospect, but one who projects as either a back-end starter or middle reliever. Note his control: he gave up only 16 walks in 90 innings. With above average breaking pitches but a below average fastball, Marceaux’s upside is limited, but his floor is high enough to foretell a major league career. Rare for a pitchability type, Marceaux has shown an ability to keep the ball in the park and, coupled with a great ability hit his spots, he's another guy with a very good chance at a solid major league career.
    19. RANDY DEJESUS (OF, 18, Rookie)

    2022 Rank: Unranked (+12)
    Ranking Range: 16-27
    Stats: 210 PA, .272/.362/.467, 7 HR (DOSL)
    DeJesus was the second of two international outfield prospects signed by the Angels last year, along with Rada. He’s a bit like Alexander Ramirez was a few years ago: a high upside bat to dream on, but lots of volatility. One to watch.
    20. DAVID CALABRESE (OF, 20, A+)

    2022 Rank: Unranked (+11)
    Ranking Range: 17-26
    Stats: 112 games, .250/.326/.387, 7 HR, 26 SB (A)
    Bear with me on this comp: Chad Curtis. After a disappointing debut in 2021 in which he hit .201/.303/.306 in Rookie ball, Calabrese had a solid season for the Inland Empire, showing a bit of everything. He probably projects as a fourth outfielder, but Calabrese has some sneaky skills, including above average plate discipline and excellent speed. Perhaps most importantly, he improved throughout year: His OPS improved each month, from .579 in May to 1.045 in September. With no power but plenty of speed, and a knack for taking a few few walks, hints of Brett Butler?
    21. LIVAN SOTO (SS, 23, AAA/MLB)

    2022 Rank: Unranked (+10)
    Ranking Range: 15-26
    Stats: 119 games, .281/.379/.362, 6 HR, 18 SB (AA); 18 games, .400/.414/.582 (MLB)
    Soto’s solid performance in AA earned a late season call-up to the Angels, which he took advantage of, hitting the over the off the ball. While clearly it is a small sample size, there’s enough here to project a solid career as a utility player or fringe starter, albeit one with excellent defense. His upside is that of a Maicer Izturis, which means he could be a very important part of improving the Angels' bench depth--strong defensive shortstops with above average plate discipline have value.
    22. AROL VERA (IF, 20, A)

    2022 Rank: 4 (-18)
    Ranking Range: 19-27
    Stats: 120 games, 4 HR, 19 SB, .207/.291/.281 (A)
    Vera was one of the more disappointing prospects this year, his ranking dropping from #4 last year to #22. Clearly he was over-matched in full season A ball, and is likely to repeat it. With excellent bat speed and tons of tools, Vera is a good candidate for a rebound, but as with a lot of Angels hitting prospects, he'll need to make better contact.
    23. WALBERT URENA (SP, 19, A)

    2022 Rank: Not in organization - International Signing
    Ranking Range: 16 – Not Ranked
    Stats: 10 GS, 37.1 IP, 32 BB, 45 SO (Rookie)
    A brief glance at his stats shows a complete lack of control (almost 1 walk per inning pitched), but also a fair number of strikeouts. Urena is very raw, but an 18-year old who can reach triple digits is one to dream on.
    24. JOSE SORIANO (SP, 24, A+)

    2022 Rank: In the Pirates Organization
    Ranking Range: 17-29th
    Stats: 7 GS, 13 IP, 2.08 ERA, 4 BB, 17 (Rookie/A)
    Remember this guy? Soriano was in the Angels organization as far back as 2016, when he was an international signing. He was lost in the Rule V draft to the Pirates but then went down with injury. The Angels reclaimed him, and he’s back. Sort of a sleeper pick at this point, but has a solid chance of a major league career, probably in the bullpen. The operative phrase is, "If healthy." The good news is, his fastball still touches upper 90's to go along with a good slider and workable changeup. 
    25. MASON ERLA (SP, 25, AAA)

    2022 Rank: 29 (+4)
    Ranking Range: 10 – Not Ranked
    Stats: 16 GS, 4.28 ERA, 82 IP, 19 BB, 64 SO (AA)
    Erla is in a similar category with Crow and Marceaux: Limited upside, but high floor and probably a major league career of some kind. Erla’s career was delayed by a fifth year in college and the lost 2020 season, so he’s a bit older for a prospect, but he might have a bit more upside than those other two, with a mid-90s fastball and a plus changeup.
    26. ALEXANDER RAMIREZ (OF, 20, A)

    2022 Rank: 8 (-18)
    Ranking Range: 18 – Not Ranked
    Stats: 118 games, .230/.290/.352, 8 HR, 21 SB (A)
    While not quite as bad as Vera in his first full professional season, Ramirez was similarly disappointing. It is hard not to dream on the offensive upside, but a good reminder that high volatility prospects don’t work out more often than they do. Like Vera, Ramirez is young enough not to give up on, but also like Vera, we were probably too bullish on him last year.
    27. ERIC TORRES (RP, 23, AAA)

    2022 Rank: Amateur/Prep
    Ranking Range: 23 – Not Ranked
    Stats: 51 IP, 1.59 ERA, 23 BB, 81 SO (AA)
    Torres had a breakout season in 2022, and has a chance of reaching the major league bullpen in 2023. As a lefty who can generate outs, Torres likely has a major league career ahead of him. Torres fastball works in the low 90's but can touch 95 mph. Hitters have a tough time picking up his heater which generates whiffs up in the zone. The southpaw reliever has a good slider to go along with his heater.
    Full Interview with Eric Torres
    28. DAVIS DANIEL (SP, 26, AAA/MLB)

    2022 Rank: 11 (-17)
    Ranking Range: 22 - Not Ranked
    Stats: 102.1 IP, 4.49 ERA, 32 BB, 83 SO (AAA)
    After being drafted by the Angels in the 7th round of the 2019 draft, Daniel missed the rest of the year with injury, then lost 2020 to the lack of a minor league season. He was considered a bit of a sleeper prospect in 2021 - not unlike Erla now - and didn't disappoint, rising quickly from A+ to AAA. But his performance this past year was rather lackluster, although certainly impacted by pitching in Salt Lake. He enters 2023 as AAA rotation depth, and should get his chance at some point this year. Could be a useful long reliever.
    29. VICTOR MEDEROS (SP, 22, A+)

    2022 Rank: Amateur/Prep
    Ranking Range: 25 - Not Ranked
    Stats: 16 IP, 5.63 ERA, 9 BB, 15 SO (A+)
    We didn't get a good look at Mederos, but a fastball that touches 99 and projectible secondary pitches shows upside, but he'll never get there if he doesn't improve his control. If he does, he'll rise quickly.
    30. MICHAEL STEFANIC (IF, 26, AAA/MLB)

    2022 Rank: 15
    Ranking Range: 25 - Not Ranked
    Stats: .197/.279/.230 in 69 PA (MLB); .310/.417/.417 in 360 PA (AAA)
    Stefanic was a bit of a "forum darling" for a bit there, but after not doing anything with his cup o' coffee, and showing very limited defensive skills, has dimmed a bit in the collective Angelswin mind. That said, he continued to hit in AAA and shows impressive contact ability and plate discipline (49 walks and 23 Ks in AAA last year), and could be a useful bench player at some point. I see a bit of Orlando Palmeiro with the bat.
    SOME ODDS & ENDS….
    Biggest risers: Silseth (+19), Blakely (+16), DeJesus (+12), Calabrese (+11), Soto (+10), Rada (+8), Quero (+6). Biggest fallers: Daniel (-17), Vera (-18), Ramirez (-18), Kochanowicz (-17), Stefanic (-16), Junk (-15), Albright (-12), Jackson (-9), Adams (-8), Bachman (-7).
    What Happened To…William Holmes, Erik Rivera?
    Also Receiving Votes (31-45ish range): Ryan Costeiu, Luke Murphy, Janson Junk, Sonny DiChiara, Jack Kochanowicz, Robinson Pina, Mason Albright, Kolten Ingram, Dario Laverde, Orlando Martinez, Kevin Maitan
    Traded: Alejandro Hidalgo, Adam Seminaris
    Dominican League and Arizona Complex League prospect guide
    Checking in on Jo Adell, Mickey Moniak, Zach Neto, Jordyn Adams, Ben Joyce, Chase Silseth, Sam Bachman & others after their 2023 Spring Camp. 
    Additional Prospect Interviews
    Below are some interviews of guys who are just outside of our top-30 prospects list
    Kolton Ingram, LHP 
    Sonny DiChiara, 1B
    Ryan Aguilar, 1B/OF
    Preston Palmeiro, INF/OF
    Luke Murphy, RHP
    Jack Kochanowicz, RHP
    Mason Albright, RHP
    Matt Coutney, 1B
     
    Thank you for reading. Special thanks to the AngelsWin.com posse who contributed to this piece, which includes: @Chuckster70, @Angelsjunky, @Docwaukee, @Inside Pitch, @Second Base, @Dave Saltzer, @rafibomb and @taylorblakeward for his guidance. 
  3. Like
    Inside Pitch reacted to ettin for a blog entry, 2021 Angelswin.com Trade Deadline Series: Likely Targets to Sell   
    By Robert Cunningham, Angelswin.com Senior Writer
    Now that we have identified probable purchases, it is time to flip the script and discuss what happens if the Angels become sellers, rather than buyers. For the purposes of this article we will only discuss those assets that actually have some level of reasonable trade value as it will not be the best use of time trying to find someone with minimal or even zero value, like Tony Watson or Kurt Suzuki, a hypothetical home on another team.
    Also we will only consider teams that are actual buyers or are on the bubble of contention (i.e. teams that are clearly sellers will not be considered in this discussion). It should also be noted that some teams may be more aggressive than others, because a specific, targeted player might push them up the win curve significantly or they may want to keep their opponents from acquiring the player so that player cannot be used against them. Finally, the Angels, in any negotiation, will more likely target MLB-ready or near-ready assets, more so than prospects overall, simply because we need to make our Major League squad better now, rather than later.
    Raisel Iglesias
    2021: 3.66 ERA, 34.9% K%-BB%, .194 AVG, 0.89 WHIP, 3.70 FIP, 1.89 SIERA
    Perhaps the Angels greatest asset at the Trade Deadline, Iglesias is having a heck of a season (Ranked 5th in K%-BB% among relievers with 30+ innings pitched) and, most importantly, he is getting outs equally well on both sides of the plate. Of course he is a pure rental, but there will be massive interest by virtually every team in contention, whether they really need him or not. Other than Craig Kimbrel, Iglesias should be the top reliever on the market, if the Angels make him available.
    Teams that may have the greatest interest in Raisel include the Blue Jays, Astros, Athletics, Brewers, Dodgers, Padres, Giants, Braves, Reds, and Phillies, probably. Again, other teams like the Red Sox and Yankees will likely inquire, despite their lack of urgent need, because a guy like Iglesias will improve any bullpen in baseball.
    So what would Raisel bring back in return? Probably 1-3 good, but not great, prospects, depending on the names involved. Some sample trade scenarios are below:
    Angels send RP Raisel Iglesias to the Blue Jays in exchange for C Reese McGuire and SP/RP Julian Merryweather. Here the Angels could pick up a potentially good 3rd wheel from the Blue Jays in McGuire who was designated for assignment earlier in the season but has raked well lately and has an above average glove behind the dish. Merryweather is capable of starting, so the Angels could continue to stretch him out or, alternatively, turn him into a multi-inning reliever. In lieu of McGuire, the Angels could ask for Jensen or Kirk, instead, but the latter is probably not available.
    Angels send RP Raisel Iglesias and SS/2B Luis Rengifo to the Dodgers in exchange for C Keibert Ruiz (#2), and SP Bobby Miller (#8). The acquisition of Ruiz would give the Angels a nice switch-hitting bat (better from the left side) to pair with Max Stassi and a starter with strikeout capability in Miller. The Dodgers get Iglesias for the stretch run and they almost acquired Rengifo previously in the nixed Pederson-Stripling deal, so the interest probably still exists. Ruiz may or may not be available, but with Will Smith locked in, the Dodgers are probably willing to move Keibert in the right deal.
    Alex Cobb
    2021: 4.60 ERA, 20.2% K%-BB%, .241 AVG, 1.22 WHIP, 2.58 FIP, 3.21 SIERA
    A solid season has put Cobb back on the map and if the Halos become sellers or take a hybrid posture, other teams will almost certainly come calling. Just like Iglesias (and a lot of other guys on this list) he is a pure rental. Although his actual ERA is a touch above League average, his peripherals tell a different, better, story (FIP is 2.58 and K%-BB% of 20.2%, as of July 7th, 2021). He has been doing this equally well against both sides of the plate, to boot.
    Teams that may have the most interest in Cobb, include the Blue Jays, Indians, Braves, Reds, Rays, and Mets. Certainly other teams will inquire, but those just listed are more probable suitors.
    So what will Cobb bring back in return? Likely something similar, but slightly less, than Iglesias, again, 1-3 good, but not great prospects. Some sample trade suggestions are below:
    Angels send SP Alex Cobb to the Rays in exchange for C Blake Hunt and SP Seth Johnson. Here the Angels pick up an athletic catcher with some pop in his bat and Johnson, a right-hander who throws in the low-to-mid 90’s with a quality 4-pitch mix.
    Angels send SP Alex Cobb to the Braves in exchange for C Shea Langeliers and SP Jared Shuster. Langeliers is a noted, excellent defender with no flaws behind the dish, but the offense is the question mark, particularly his swing, which the Angels would try to fix. Shuster is an advanced arm that just needs to be stretched out over the next couple of seasons in the Minors, that could be an above average strikeout guy from the left-side of the mound, potentially.
    Andrew Heaney
    2021: 5.38 ERA, 20.6% K%-BB%, .257 AVG, 1.35 WHIP, 4.15 FIP, 3.72 SIERA
    Despite an excellent K%-BB%, Andrew has, unfortunately, not had correspondingly actual results. Part of his issues has been one part bad luck (.328 BABIP), one part letting to many runners score (67.9% LOB%), another part walking hitters (3.04 BB/9), one more part giving up a little to many long balls (1.64 HR/9), and an uncharacteristically bad time against left-handed hitters, which traditionally has been a strong suit.
    Teams that may have the most interest in Heaney, include the Athletics, Braves, Indians, Reds, Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Yankees. Certainly other teams will inquire, but those just listed are more probable suitors.
    All of those parts listed above lead to the depression of Andrew’s value, so, unlike Iglesias or Cobb, he is more likely to bring back 1-2 good, but not great prospects if the Angels choose to move him at the Trade Deadline. Some sample trade scenarios are listed below:
    Angels send SP Andrew Heaney to the Athletics in exchange for SP Brady Feigl and C Drew Millas. This move would give the Angels an interesting arm in Feigl and a possible replacement for Stassi in Millas, who is strong defensively.
    Angels send SP Andrew Heaney to the Red Sox in exchange for SP Noah Song and SP/RP Aldo Ramirez. Song is an interesting flyer who throws hard, but has been serving in the military and could start as a high-octane reliever and then stretched out over time and Ramirez is a multi-innings type that has the potential to stick in the rotation if things break right.
    SS Jose Iglesias
    2021: .275/.306/.394, .306 BABIP, 94 wRC+
    Iglesias, known for his high quality defense, has certainly disappointed a bit on the field. However, he has exceeded his run production by about 6% over his career average, so there is some give and take here, based on expectations. There are two scenarios where Iglesias might get traded: 1) the Angels decide to sell off expendable assets, including Jose and 2) the Angels decide to upgrade at SS, before the Trade Deadline, and move him, then. Other than that, it makes more sense to keep Jose and then target one of the many shortstops that will be available in free agency this upcoming offseason.
    Teams that may have some interest in Iglesias, include the Reds, Athletics, and, more remotely, the Rays, if they feel their young prospects they called up are not getting it done. Other teams like the Yankees and Indians are struggling at SS, too, but the former has Gleyber Torres, who is scuffling, but has immense talent, and the latter seem to be falling out of contention, so they may forgo a Trade Deadline deal to bolster their middle infield. This leaves Iglesias’ trade market somewhat bare.
    When you consider that Jose’s defense should rebound, he makes for a low-level pickup by a contending team, but he will not bring back much, probably one reasonable prospect if the Angels move him at the Trade Deadline. An example trade scenario is listed below:
    Angels send SS Jose Iglesias to the Reds in exchange for SP Noah Davis. This would give the Halos a near-ready pitching prospect that features a fastball/slider/changeup combination with low-to-mid 90’s velocity. Could serve well in a multi-inning relief or starter role, depending on how his development continues.
    RP Steve Cishek
    2021: 2.88 ERA, 7.1% K%-BB%, .219 AVG, 1.43 WHIP, 3.34 FIP, 4.70 SIERA
    Cishek has had a strong, results-oriented season to-date, living and dying by putting the ball on the ground and letting the defense do its job, in addition to making hitters miss enough to generate poor contact. Some teams might be afraid of the walks (rightfully so), but he is getting it done against both sides of the plate.
    Teams that may have some level of interest in Cishek, include clubs like the Phillies, Reds, Athletics, Giants, Blue Jays, Astros, Braves, Mets, and Padres. Other teams may have interest, too, but the teams listed are outside of the Top 10 in bullpen WAR, making them more probable suitors.
    Now certainly, Cishek is no Iglesias, but he has been running well and that should translate into 1-2 mid-tier prospects, potentially. Some example trade scenarios are listed below:
    Angels send RP Steve Cishek to the Brewers in exchange for SS David Hamilton. Here the Halos would pick up a good contact, great defensive shortstop. Not dissimilar to David Fletcher, but he strikes out more. Could turn into a utility guy if the power doesn’t improve, but not a bad guy to have, particularly if his development breaks right.
    Angels send RP Steve Cishek to the Brewers in exchange for SP Bowden Francis. Another alternate deal with the Brewers might bring back near-read starter Bowden Francis, who is a good command type of pitcher with a solid 4-pitch mix.
    Angels send RP Steve Cishek to the Astros in exchange for SP Hunter Brown and RP Brett Conine. Since the Astros play in the same Division, the Halos would probably try to extract a little more from Houston, snagging the high-potential Brown and solid Conine. Both have upside, at the minimum in the bullpen, but both, particularly Hunter, could enter the rotation at some point.
    SP/RP Dylan Bundy
    2021: 6.78 ERA, 14.0% K%-BB%, .275 AVG, 1.42 WHIP, 5.44 FIP, 4.36 SIERA
    Unfortunately for Dylan, his 2021 season did not come even close to replicating his 2020 campaign. Despite a slightly above average K%-BB%, he simply has given up too many hits and the defense behind him did not help matters in the least. As evidenced by his recent move to the bullpen, the Angels are still trying to extract some value from him in the final weeks leading up to the Trade Deadline, but no matter what this will be a more difficult sell on the trade market for Perry Minasian.
    Teams that may have some level of interest in Bundy, include clubs like the Athletics, Braves, Indians, Reds, Blue Jays, and Red Sox. Other teams might make inquiries, but those just listed are the most in need of help against right-handed hitters, which Dylan does a better job against, overall.
    For all of the numbers listed above, Bundy represents low value on the trade market, but there will be modest interest. He will only bring back 1-2 mid-to-lower level tier prospects at best and the Angels may have to retain some salary based on the return in question. Some sample trade scenarios are listed below:
    Angels send SP/RP Dylan Bundy to the Indians in exchange for SP/RP Hunter Gaddis. As indicated Bundy will not pull much in, but Gaddis projects as a multi-inning reliever with above average strikeout capability, so the Halos may make this their ask in a hypothetical Indians trade.
    Angels send SP/RP Dylan Bundy to the Reds in exchange for SP Graham Ashcraft. This one might be a stretch, but Ashcraft could move fast through the Angels system to turn into a likely multi-inning or short-stint reliever.
    SP/RP Jose Quintana
    2021 Starter: 7.22 ERA, 14.5% K%-BB%, .279 AVG, 1.93 WHIP, 4.44 FIP, 4.50 SIERA
    2021 Reliever: 7.94 ERA, 22.2% K%-BB%, .320 AVG, 1.76 WHIP, 5.99 FIP, 3.00 SIERA
    So, looking at his numbers, as both a starter and reliever, you can see that Quintana has suffered at the hands of the baseball gods. A 14.5% K%-BB% should not equate to a 7.22 ERA (and his peripheral FIP and SIERA numbers suggest that), nor should a 22.2% K%-BB%, as a reliever, equate to a 7.94 ERA. In both cases, Jose is running a .400 BABIP, which is clearly saying he has suffered bad luck on top of it all. The peripherals highly suggest Quintana should have better actual results, but unfortunately for the Halos that has not materialized, yet.
    Teams that may have some level of interest in a reclamation project like Quintana, could include the Blue Jays, Reds, Phillies, Braves, and Red Sox, among others. More than likely they would consider him in a relief role, more so than in the rotation.
    Clearly, Quintana will not pull down more than a low-level type of prospect, so we should expect very little here (almost didn’t list him, but the peripherals will pique the interest of other teams). An example trade scenario is listed below:
    Angels send SP/RP Jose Quintana to the Braves in exchange for SP Jared Johnson. Even Johnson might be too big of a price to pay, but, currently, he is a projected 35+ grade prospect, per FanGraphs, that the Halos would probably feel happy acquiring back in return for Jose.
    Conclusion
    One notable takeaway from this mental exercise, is that a lot of the potential teams the Angels seem to partner up with, do not have a lot of notable pieces that are near- or MLB-ready types of players. This may prove a bit problematic, but should not be a roadblock for the Angels to get a deal or two accomplished.
    It seems quite plausible that the Angels will make at least one or two deals, because they do have assets down on the farm that they could bring up to replace the pieces they sell. For example, could the Halos trade Jose Iglesias and simply bring up Luis Rengifo to replace him at SS? Could Minasian designate Kurt Suzuki for assignment and promote Matt Thaiss behind the dish? Would the Angels consider jettisoning Adam Eaton after Trout and Upton return from the Injured List in order to promote Jo Adell? Could they move Juan Lagares and bring up Brandon Marsh before September call ups to get his first carafe of coffee? Maybe they move Cishek and promote Quijada? Part ways with Dylan Bundy and let Dillon Peters take his place? Move Quintana and promote Chris Rodriguez into the rotation?
    The point is that the Angels have assets on the farm that could replace some of our poor performers and, performance-wise, you probably will not know the difference and, in fact, they may improve the overall team. This is why you should expect to see at least 1-2 guys go out the door in trade, in addition to the potential acquisitions mentioned in the previous article.
     
    If you were the Angels GM, which players would you sell at the Trade Deadline?
    Up next - 2021 Angelswin.com Trade Deadline Series: Conclusion
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