LA Angels free agent preview: Second Base

ANAHEIM, CA - APRIL 09: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim owner Arte Moreno (R) talks with manager Mike Scioscia prior to the start of the home opener against the Oakland Athletics at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on April 9, 2013 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CA - APRIL 09: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim owner Arte Moreno (R) talks with manager Mike Scioscia prior to the start of the home opener against the Oakland Athletics at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on April 9, 2013 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images) /
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BOSTON, MA – SEPTEMBER 30: Eduardo Nunez
BOSTON, MA – SEPTEMBER 30: Eduardo Nunez /

Eduardo Nunez

Eduardo Nunez is an under the radar type player the Angels could make a move for. Similar to what the Angels did last year when signing catcher Maldonado.

What Nunez offers is his versatility, having played second base, third base, shortstop and outfield during his eight year career.

Nunez definitely has the tools to be an everyday starter however. In 2017, his bat proved it by batting .313 with an OBP of .341. Besides his bat, Nunez also offers great speed and aggressive baserunning. The ability to go first to third is something manager Mike Scioscia has stressed in being important.

When Nunez was traded from the San Francisco Giants to the Boston Red Sox, Nunez provided an immediate jolt to the ball club which lead them to win their division. The Angels could use some of that provided energy.

Because Nunez is an under the radar player, he’ll command less on the market. MLB.com predicts Nunez could ink a 4yr / $40 million deal. A great bargain that allows the Angels to pursue other needs.

In contrast, Nunez is a versatility player and has never played as an everyday player. It asks the question if he can withstand an entire MLB season.

Also, since he is versatile, his defense is below average and he has not had the opportunity to increase his defensive skill at a certain position. Sadly, Nunez did suffer a knee injury late last season which is alarming and has seen the disabled list multiple times in his career.

However, Nunez does offer versatility and pop off his bat. Coming in at a cheaper option, the Angels could take a look at Nunez if they want to save some money.