Predicting LA Angels Opening Day Roster: Post Winter Meetings Edition

Infielders

• 1B/DH Albert Pujols
• 1B/DH Jared Walsh
• 3B Anthony Rendon
• 2B/3B Tommy La Stella
• SS Andrelton Simmons
• 2B Luis Rengifo
• 2B/3B/SS/OF David Fletcher
• C Max Stassi
• C Jason Castro

This was a hard group to put together, and may seem larger than usual. Nine guys for the infield is a large percentage of the roster set for these five positions. However, two of the guys could be considered with different groups in Jared Walsh and David Fletcher. Walsh is obviously a reliever as well as first baseman, while David Fletcher is literally everything.

The highlight of the group is new superstar Anthony Rendon. The biggest signing of the offseason, Rendon makes the Angels better in every phase of the game. He and Andrelton Simmons form one of the best defensive duos in the MLB now, and bring a punch at the plate as well.

Luis Rengifo was the one guy I considered leaving off the roster. However, Fletcher’s ability to move to the outfield when needed created a debate between Rengifo and carrying four traditional outfielders. However, Rengifo showed flashes last season and his versatility plays well off the bench.

The catcher position for the Angels is in flux right now, but this is how I see it panning out. Max Stassi and Jason Castro create both a righty/lefty platoon and offensive and defensive pairing with Castro providing the pop and Stassi bringing the defense.