LA Angels Receiving Reinforcements In Form of Luis Valbuena

The LA Angels have not had the best of luck with injuries in 2017. However, they have finally received good news on the injury front. 1B/3B Luis Valbuena is eyeing a return on Tuesday against the Mariners.

The LA Angels signed Valbuena back in January to a two-year deal, with a mutual option for the 2019 season. He can play both corner infield positions efficiently, and should start at first base due to C.J Cron’s spot on the 10-day disabled list. Valbuena himself has yet to make his Angels debut because of a hamstring injury he suffered during Spring Training.

More from Halo Hangout

• New York Post columnist has LA Angels bringing veteran starter back to LA
• Dodgers make wild mistake signing failed LA Angels starter
• Why LA Angels’ Qualifying Offer to Raisel Iglesias could become historical
• Both Gold Glove finalists for LA Angels getting snubbed is a complete joke
• Marcus Stroman definitely appears to be interested in the LA Angels

The Angels have had a first-hand experience with Valbuena, as he played for the Houston Astros in 2015 and 2016. In 50 games against the Angels, he hit .261 with a .384 on-base percentage. He drove in 39 runs and scored 20 times himself. He has five career home runs against the Angels.

Valbuena, 31, arguably had his best season last year for the Astros. In 90 games, he had a career-high .260 batting average while also sending 13 pitches over the fence. He tacked on 40 RBI’s and 44 walks, while striking out 81 times. While his power went down (career-high 25 home runs), his batting averaged surged (career .232 hitter).

The Angels signed Valbuena because of the power he brings to the table as a left-handed hitter. He should slot well in the fifth spot, behind Albert Pujols. Valbuena is enough of a threat from the left side of the plate to protect Pujols from right-handed relievers. Teams will also hesitate to intentionally walk Pujols with the threat of Valbuena taking them deep in mind.

Next: Who Are the Best Players From Angels' Drafts of the Past?

Valbuena is eyeing a return on Tuesday against the Mariners. James Paxton will be the starting pitcher. He is left-handed so Valbuena will face a challenge in his first career game as an Angel. Valbuena does have 10 career home runs against the Mariners, however.