The Angels are actively seeking infield reinforcements and have explored various options to bolster their depth. MLB Network’s Jon Morosi had previously linked the team to Gleyber Torres, but the former Yankees second baseman has instead signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Detroit Tigers. Torres is expected to take over as Detroit’s everyday second baseman, teaming up with either Javier Báez or Trey Sweeney to anchor the middle infield.
Morosi had reported that both the Angels and Blue Jays were interested in Torres. However, the Blue Jays addressed their need by trading for Andrés Giménez, leaving the Angels as the primary suitor at one point, which sparked some chatter among fans.
Torres is a polarizing figure in baseball. Defensively, he struggled significantly last season, particularly in the first half. He’s not known for his speed or baserunning abilities, traits that plagued much of the Yankees’ roster. His arm strength has been criticized as well, and he regressed offensively into more of a singles hitter despite a track record of power. Torres also underperformed in his contract year, though he did show up in the ALCS against Cleveland. Unfortunately, he faltered in the World Series, leaving a sour impression on Yankees fans. Angels GM Perry Minasian is known to prioritize a player’s intangibles and makeup, and Torres’ perceived high-maintenance demeanor and reluctance to move to third base likely diminished his appeal. If the Angels truly valued him, they could have easily outbid the Tigers, but it seems Minasian didn’t see him as a fit.
Angels fans, for the most part, didn’t see Torres as an ideal addition either. Even on a short-term deal, many preferred other options at second base. Fans continue to support Luis Rengifo despite some concerning metrics, and they’ve expressed excitement about other potential solutions. Ha-Seong Kim and Hye-Seong Kim are popular suggestions, but there’s particularly strong enthusiasm for Christian Moore, the Angels’ 2024 first-round pick. Drafted 8th overall, higher than Zach Neto was in 2022 (13th), Moore is seen as a cornerstone of the organization’s future. Had he not been sidelined by injury last season, he might have made his MLB debut already. With Neto recovering from injury, the prospect of a Moore-Neto double-play combination excites fans, who hope it could become a long-term fixture in the Angels’ lineup.
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