ANAHEIM — The Angels and outfielder Aaron Hicks have agreed to a one-year, $740,000 contract.
The Angels announced the deal with the former Long Beach Wilson High standout on Monday.
Hicks’ salary is the major league minimum and will be offset against the $9.5 million he was guaranteed by the New York Yankees, who released him from a $70 million, seven-year contract that also assured a $9.5 million salary in 2025 plus a $1 million buyout of a 2026 club option.
Hicks, 34, was released by the Yankees after slashing just .188/.263/.261 through the first two months of the 2023 season but he improved to .275/.381/.425 in 65 games for the Baltimore Orioles. He batted .253 with eight homers and 36 RBIs for the season. Hicks’ best stretch came from 2017 to 2020, when he had an .819 OPS while hitting 60 home runs in 338 games.
Hicks joins an outfield group that includes three-time American League MVP Mike Trout, Taylor Ward and Mickey Moniak plus Jo Adell. Trout and Ward missed significant parts of last season due to injuries.
The switch-hitter has played mostly center field throughout his career, but he also has plenty of experience at both corner outfield spots. His addition could allow the Angels to use one of their other outfielders to acquire a starting pitcher or an impact hitter via trade, but he also serves as depth behind the potential for injuries and the development of Adell, who is out of minor league options and can’t be sent down without being exposed to waivers.
“With the injuries we’ve had in the outfield in the last few years, you want guys that can do a lot of things, and Aaron is one of those guys,” Angels general manager Perry Minasian said on a video conference call with reporters. “I wouldn’t rule anything out. They’re gonna have opportunities to play, and obviously spring training is gonna be important. As currently constructed we still have room for everyone.”
Hicks’ presence does not mean Trout is moving out of center…
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