Justin Upton Likely to Opt-Out from LA Angels

The LA Angels made big moves down the stretch. One of these was to acquire slugger Justin Upton from the Detroit Tigers. The offense was far more consistent with Upton in the lineup, but it appears he will be opting out of his current deal with the Angels to test free agency.

The LA Angels did not give up much for Justin Upton. It was a low risk, high reward deal and the Angels are the likely winners. With Justin Upton opting out, it leaves a hole in left field for the Angels. However, Upton is not gone yet.

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Upton could very likely be opting out to sign an extension with the Angels. He had a career year and deserves to be paid for it. Upton knows this as do Billy Eppler and the Angels. Upton made it clear how much he enjoyed playing in Anaheim. When Upton was a free agent prior to the 2016 season, the Angels were strong candidates. The Angels trading for Upton could have been a great head start for the team as they try to lock up left field for the long-term.

Upton would be paid $88 million over the next four years if he decides to opt in. However, with that being unlikely, Upton will hit free agency. After the stellar season he had, Upton could be looking at another five to seven million dollars per season in a new four-year deal.

The Angels have to be considered frontrunners for Upton. They have the weather that attracts free agents. Now that Josh Hamilton is off the books, they have the cap space to sign them. Along with that, they have the attraction that is Mike Trout in center field. Playing next to Trout and hitting behind him is a major plus for Upton.

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While Halo fans may be nervous to see Upton opting out, they should be confident in Eppler and his team to convince Upton to join the Angels long-term plans.