All-Angels Team: Catcher

Mike Napoli (2006-2010)
Aug 8, 2014; Anaheim, CA, USA; Boston Red Sox first baseman Mike Napoli (12) follows through on a solo home run in the fifth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Mike Napoli may be best known for what he has accomplished since departing Anaheim, but his legacy with the Angels is as one of the top backstops in club history. Napoli was drafted by the Anaheim Angels in the 17th round of the 2000 draft, and made his debut in 2006. The Hollywood, FL native spent the first five seasons of his career wearing an Angels’ uniform. Long before Napoli ever grew his famous beard, he was crushing baseballs in an Angel Stadium.
Known for his offense, Napoli immediately showed an ability to hit the long ball. Napoli clubbed 92 home runs during his time with the Angels, and posted a .485 slugging percentage. In 2008, Napoli hit 20 dingers in just 78 games, good for an impressive .586 slugging percentage. Offense was not the problem for Napoli, as he hit .251, with 92 home runs and 248 RBI’s in his five seasons in the Big A. Napoli left plenty to be desired defensively, as he never threw out more than 31% of potential base stealers. He also failed to post a fielding percentage higher than .900 in all but one of his five seasons. Overall, Napoli tallied 11.1 wins above replacement as a member of the Angels.