LA Angels: A look at the recent Halos roster moves

The Angels Opening Day roster is slowly taking form following the team’s recent moves.

On Friday, the Halos released pitcher Jesse Chavez and outfielder Jon Jay. Both veterans were invited to spring camp on minor-league deals, but struggled in their exhibitions.

2021 Spring Training Statistics:

• RHP Jesse Chavez (5 games): 4.1 IP 9 H 7 ER 3 BB 2 SO
• OF Jon Jay (15 games): 2-for-29 1 HR 3 RBI 1 BB 10 SO

The Angels also brought in right-hander AJ Ramos on a minor-league deal on Thursday. Ramos will likely begin the season in the Halos alternate site and eventually take the role Chavez was suppose to fill in the bullpen.

Angels: The final roster is taking shape in the final week of spring training.

The decision to release Jay was due to his struggles as well as the emergence of his strong competition.

Juan Lagares, Scott Schebler, and Taylor Ward have all impressed in camp with each player posting a batting average above .330. The number of options shrunk on Friday as Ward was optioned to the minor leagues and Schebler was reassigned.

You could make a case for any of the three to earn a spot on the bench, but it appears the team is set to go with Lagares. I think the decision has to do with his contact-first approach and his defense which still appears to be Gold Glove-caliber.

2021 Spring Training Statistics:

• Juan Lagares (37 AB): .378/.410/.514 1 HR 6 RBI 1 BB 5 SO
• Taylor Ward (20 AB): .348/.448/.739 2 HR 8 RBI 5 BB 5 SO
• Scott Schebler (27 AB): .333/.387/.741 3 HR 10 RBI 2 BB 10 SO

The projected Opening Day outfield starters consist of Justin Upton, Mike Trout, and Dexter Fowler. It’s likely Lagares can see significant playing time if Upton or Fowler begins to struggle. Using Lagares as a fourth outfield option will also buy time for the development of Jo Adell, and top prospects Brandon Marsh and Jordyn Adams.

Here’s a look at the additional roster moves made on Thursday.

Want your voice heard? Join the Halo Hangout team!

Write for us!

With four spring games remaining there are still a few important roster decisions to be made. One player to keep an eye on will be No.4 prospect Chris Rodriguez. There have been talks about using the right-hander in the bullpen, but it’s possible he could become a starter sooner than later if Griffin Canning and Andrew Heaney continue to struggle.