3 starters playing their way out of LA Angels’ 2022 plans down the stretch

The LA Angels have had quite the disappointing season this year.

In fairness, it’s safe to say that it would have gone way differently if we weren’t crushed by injuries all year long.

In a year like this, however, many Angels who weren’t big parts of the Angels’ plans coming into the year received lots of opportunity. Some of them, however, may have played themselves out of future opportunity. One Angel, too, had injuries affect how he played this season, and might have affected his future with the team.

No. 3 starter playing his way out of LA Angels’ 2022 plans down the stretch: Juan Lagares

This one really isn’t me trying to call out Juan Lagares for his performance on the LA Angels this year. There were little expectations put on him this season, and that was more than appropriate.

However, there was a chance that he really steps up in Mike Trout’s absence and earns him another contract with this team. I really didn’t see good enough performance from him to expect that.

He’s hit .234/.263/.385 this year with just six home runs, 34 RBI, and 36 runs. That was all in 97 games this year (all stats are as of September 14).

I’ve been really uninspired in particular as to how he’s played as of late. He’s gone 4 for 28 in his last 11 games, with just four RBI, three runs scored, and an awful .200 on-base percentage.

I have nothing against Lagares, as again, it was hard to place expectations on him this season. I wouldn’t bring him back next year, though. Brandon Marsh and Jo Adell are so much better already.

I’m happy for him that he’s gotten many chances to start lately, but I don’t see many chances in 2022.