Angels Rumors: 3 players who have increased their trade value this spring

The Angels filled a void at the shortstop position after the anticipated departure of Andrelton Simmons, trading for veteran Jose Iglesias.

In his first month as general manager, Perry Minasian sent two minor-league players to Baltimore in exchange for Iglesias. The Halos absorbed the final one-year, $3.5 million of Iglesias’ contract. That figure is a bargain given the offensive production from Iglesias in 2020.

The 31-year-old slashed .373/.400/.556 line with three home runs and 24 RBI in 39 games last summer. Iglesias has carried his strong production into spring training as a member of the Angels.

2021 Spring Training Statistics:

• Iglesias (13 games): .276 BA 1 HR 5 RBI 0 BB 3 SO .552 SLG

What I like most about what I’ve seen from Iglesias isn’t his numbers, but it’s the hustle he brings. Iglesias has hit two triples this spring, one of which went into the left-center gap. Rather than just pull-up to second base as most players do, Iglesias motored into third. This type of hustle, in an exhibition and from a player with a guaranteed roster spot, sets a standard for the rest of the team.

The all-out effort from Iglesias this spring hasn’t been limited to offense. He’s shown off his highlight-reel defensive skills he has been known for in his nine-year career.

The upcoming shortstop free-agent class is loaded with superstar talent. Carlos Correa, Javier Baez, Fransisco Lindor, Corey Seager, and Trevor Story are among the big names to hit the market. Iglesias isn’t regarded in the same caliber as those players, but he is still a solid option in the prime of his career.

His team-friendly 2021 contract will make him an easy target for contending teams who need help in the middle of their infield. It would only be a rental for half a season, but if Iglesias is swinging the bat well, he could land the Halos a top prospect.