Los Angeles Angels Sign Fernando Cabrera To Minor-League Deal

The Angels made their first player transaction of 2013. No, it’s not a sexy name like Kyle Lohse or Michael Bourn (who they don’t need). The Angels instead went and added some pitching depth for the minor leagues. The Angels agreed to terms on a minor-league deal with right-handed pitcher Fernando Cabrera, and Cabrera was extended an invite to Spring Training.

March 2 2012, Port St Lucie, FL, USA: New York Mets relief pitcher Fernando Cabrera (58) during photo day at Digital Domain Park. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports.

Last year, the 31 year old was in the New York Mets organization at AAA Buffalo. While at Buffalo, he posted a record of 4-5, with an ERA of 4.10 in 57 games out of the bullpen. He pitched 68 innings, giving up 70 hits and striking out 60. The last time he was in the major leagues was with the Boston Red Sox back in 2010, where he pitched 1.1 innings. He spent 2011 in AAA Sacramento for the Oakland A’s. Cabrera has major league record of 8-7 with a 5.24 ERA in parts of seven seasons.

Cabrera is another depth move, similar to their other minor-league free agent signings earlier in the off-season like Jo-Jo Reyes and Billy Buckner. He’s a guy to bring in and give you innings at AAA. I would be shocked if he appeared in the majors for the Angels in 2013.

Every organization has guys like Cabrera who help fill up minor-league rosters and give them a chance to extend their career a bit, looking for a shot to come back to the show. Look for the Angels to maybe sign one or two more guys like this.