Los Angeles Angels sign outfielder Scott Schebler

The Angels have signed a former prospect with some MLB experience.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Los Angeles Angels have agreed to terms on a minor-league contract with former Reds outfielder Scott Schebler. Schebler spent time in the Atlanta Braves organization in 2020 and now comes over with new general manager Perry Minasian. Nightengale also noted that Schebler will receive $900,000 if he makes the major leagues with the Halos, a small raise from the minimum contract.

The Halos have an outfield that is predominantly right-handed and Schebler’s left-handed bat provides some diversity. He likely will not be in for a large sum of at-bats this upcoming season, but he could make the team out of camp as someone who spells Jo Adell if he struggles or any of the other right-handed hitting outfielders on the club.

Schebler crushed 30 home runs in 2017 for the Cincinnati Reds, posting a .233 batting average and 98 wRC+. He got his start in the big leagues with the Los Angeles Dodgers back in 2015, but was traded the next winter to the Reds. Schebler received just one plate appearance with the Braves in 2020 and played in just 30 games for the Reds in 2019, posting a horrifyingly bad 30 wRC+. While his track record is not extensive nor consistent, he has proven to be at least a capable MLB bat in the past with some notable power.

The 30-year-old outfielder has dealt with nagging shoulder injuries in the past and the Halos are hoping he can bounce back from them. Schebler has also shown some defensive prowess at the big league level so he could be an asset on that side of the ball as well.

The Angels enter into camp with Mike Trout, Jo Adell, and Justin Upton as their primary outfield pieces and obviously, that will not be enough. Having major league experienced depth is always an excellent sign for a ball club. Instead of running out career minor leaguers to receive at-bats in the outfield in 2021, the Angels have someone capable.