TEMPE, Ariz. — The Angels were just past halfway through the exhibition schedule as they reached their first off day on Tuesday, and little had changed from what we thought heading into the spring.
There have been some encouraging signs and they’ve avoided any significant injuries. They also haven’t signed any of the prominent free agents who were available at the start of camp.
Owner Arte Moreno said in an interview last month that he didn’t want to spend money “unless it’s going to substantially change the team,” and he seems to be sticking to that. So, no Blake Snell. At least, not now.
Beyond that question, here’s what else was on your mind when we asked last week.
Q: Any clue yet how the outfield at-bats will be divided up? Specifically curious if they’re viewing (Jo) Adell/(Mickey) Moniak as some kind of platoon or if they’re trying to get equal at-bats to all four outfielders with the DH slot being utilized at times. Thanks — @j_thomas_421
A: The more likely platoon is Moniak and Aaron Hicks, because their splits are both heavily slanted toward one side. Moniak would play against righties and Hicks, who is a switch-hitter, against lefties. Adell has performed equally against righties and lefties throughout his career.
Given that, I think the only thing you can really predict about the way the Angels will use their outfielders is that Moniak and Hicks won’t play in the same lineup.
Beyond that, there are plenty of configurations they could use, including putting one of the outfielders in the DH spot. I would expect Moniak, Hicks and Adell to all get plenty of opportunities to play alongside Mike Trout and Taylor Ward. Obviously, if one player separates himself with a better performance, he’ll get to play more.
Q: What do you predict will be the 5-man rotation to start the season? — @mkl8522
A: Although the Angels – and most teams – often come into spring training with at least one rotation spot up for grabs, this…
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