Evaluating The Angels Lineup Options

The Angels are going to have a very deep lineup upon the start of next season. They are going to have a lot of options about where to place people and how to use them. What could be more interesting is what they could do with the lineup as the season moves along. Barring anything unforseen, like Arte Moreno having more money stuffed in his mattress or a stealth trade move upcoming, let’s take a look at what the Angels lineup will probably be opening day:

Jul 6, 2012; Anaheim, CA, USA; Los Angeles Angels center fielder

(25) before the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Trout LF

Erick Aybar SS

Albert Pujols 1B

Josh Hamilton RF

Mark Trumbo DH

Howie Kendrick 2B

Alberto Callaspo 3B

Chris Iannetta C

Peter Boujos CF

Now, let’s take a look at what it could acutally look like in the future, maybe even at some point in 2013:

Bourjos CF

Aybar SS

Trout LF

Hamilton RF

Pujols 1B

Trumbo DH

Kendrick 2B

Callaspo 3B

Iannetta C

Why you ask? Well, if Bourjos can develop into a consistent lead-off kind of guy, meaning cutting down on those strikeouts and improving his OBP, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t hit lead-off. If Trout continues to hit like he did in 2012, even with some regression, he should be further down in the order to maximize his run producing ability and to get on base right in front of Hamilton and Pujols.

Could this be the lineup at some point? Absolutely. Should it be right away? No, not until Bourjos proves himself. Nevertheless, the Angels are going to have a fun lineup next year.