LAA Angels Trading Block: Blockbuster With Boston, Filling Holes in AL East

Baltimore Orioles

Wait, you’re telling me there’s a player on the Baltimore Orioles worth three top 15 prospects for the Angels? That’s exactly what I’m telling you, and that player is Pedro Severino. The Orioles’ backstop was one of their few bright spots in 2019, and figures to be a solid player for years to come. However, the Orioles have top prospect catching prospect Adley Rutschman on his way to the MLB, making Severino dispensable for them.

Severino posted a solid batting line last season, hitting .249 with 13 home runs and 13 doubles to go with it. His defense isn’t going to win him a Gold Glove anytime soon, but it also won’t be underwhelming. Overall, he was worth 1.2 WAR last season, which would be a huge upgrade over the negative group the Angels had last year.

The best way I can describe Severino is that he is just a rock solid catcher in the MLB. He’s no star, but slotting him in as your #9 hitter and trusting him behind the plate makes this Angels team better than they are right now. Another attractive part about Severino is that he is under team control for four more seasons, which we know Billy Eppler will love.

Going back to the Orioles is shortstop Livan Soto and outfielder D’Shawn Knowles. Both have the potential to develop into solid starters in the MLB. However, exceptional outfield and infield depth could keep both planted in the minors for years to come.