3 most legendary LA Angels second basemen of all-time

When choosing an LA Angels all-time best second baseman, the squad has had only a few that can be considered outstanding.

It’s a key position with shortstop to form the keystone. Up the middle is usually a defense first spot, but the LA Angels have been fortunate to have had second basemen that can hit as well as field. 

Second basemen have to be versatile. They almost have to be a combination of infielder and outfielder, especially the way the game is played currently. Players that patrol the number 4 position also have to communicate with other players on how to set themselves up defensively. 

Second basemen have to be agile, quick and also have the wherewithal to be the captain of the infield. That being said, here are the three that have set the standard in LA Angels history.

The No. 3 most legendary LA Angels second basemen of all-time: Bobby Knoop

Originally from Montebello, California, slick fielding Bobby Knoop formed the first great keystone combination with LA Angels legendary shortstop Jim Fregosi. Knoop was a four-time LA Angels team MVP. 

He won the Gold Glove award for fielding excellence in 1966, 1967 and 1968. Knoop has some power evidenced by hitting 17 home runs, 18 doubles and 11 triples during his lone all-star season in 1966. 

Knoop had been involved as a coach with the LA Angels after his playing days. He officially retired last season. 

The No. 1 most legendary LA Angels second basemen of all-time: Bobby Grich

When LA Angels owner Gene Autry was convinced to open the saddle-bags one more time during free agency of 1977, he didn’t regret it.

He signed outfielder Don Baylor first. Then he signed all-star outfielder Joe Rudi. The third signee was infielder Bobby Grich. 

He was originally signed to play shortstop for the club. But after injuring his back moving an air conditioner, he missed significant time. He moved to second base in 1978 and made the All-Star team in 1979, 1980 and 1982.

Grich won the American League Silver Slugger award in 1981. He was a solid defender and during his time with the Angels, he hit .269/.370/.436 with 154 homers, 183 doubles and 557 RBIs in 1,222 games.

Grich helped lead the Angels to their first three postseason berths in club history in 1979, ’82 and ’86. 

LA Angels postseason hero Adam Kennedy also deserves to be mentioned. Kennedy hit three memorable home runs in the 2002 American League Championship clincher. He hit .280/.334/.398 with 51 homers, 176 doubles, 353 RBIs and 123 stolen bases in 992 games with the Angels.

Right now, the Halos will likely role with David Fletcher at second. He certainly has the defense to end up on a list like this some day, and it'll come down to his bat next year if he wants to take that next step. The Halos have only had a few special second basemen in the past, and building on that would be great to see.