Assessing the Angels outfield situation with predictions (Part 2)

After looking at what players the Angels currently have on the roster, it’s easy to feel a desire for more. So that begs the question, do they need to make a free agent signing or trade to shore up the corner outfield?

Earlier this offseason, the Angels signed Scott Schebler to a minor league deal. The lefty mashed 30 home runs in 2017 but holds a career .239/.318/.442 line in his six year career. Maybe the Halos get something out of Schebler, but it’s not worth getting their hopes up.

Adding another outfielder might block paths for younger prospects, but it might give the Angels the best chance at winning in 2021.

Last offseason, the Angels expressed interest in Joc Pederson and even made a trade for him before it was soon nixed by owner Arte Moreno. A year later, Joc Pederson is a free agent, so it would only make sense that the Halos would go after him this offseason, right?

Wrong.

The difference between then and now is that Pederson had one year left on his contract, and he figured to be a good temporary option while the Angels outfield prospects developed some more. Also, with Pederson in free agency, he will likely be seeking a multi-year deal, something that would not be a good fit for the Angels. Time to move on.

The same logic could be applied to most current free agents, so it doesn’t seem likely that the Angels would look to make a signing to address the outfield. However, with Adell expected to begin the season back in the minors and Upton’s performance up in the air, it might make sense to make a similar trade as they attempted last season; trading for an outfielder in the last year of their contract.

Taking a look at the next free agent outfield class, a few names stick out as possible candidates.