The Angels are actively seeking infield reinforcements and have explored a variety of options to bolster their roster. MLB Network’s Jon Morosi previously linked the Angels to Gleyber Torres, but the former Yankees second baseman has since signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Detroit Tigers. Torres is expected to take over as Detroit’s everyday second baseman, pairing with either Javier Báez or Trey Sweeney up the middle.
Morosi noted that both the Angels and Blue Jays showed interest in Torres. However, the Blue Jays pivoted by trading for Andrés Giménez, leaving the Angels as the remaining suitor. This stirred up some debate among Angels fans.
Torres has been a polarizing figure in baseball. Defensively, he struggled significantly last season, particularly in the first half. He’s neither fast nor a strong baserunner, traits he shared with much of the Yankees roster. His arm strength has been criticized, and while he has a history of power hitting, he regressed into a contact hitter last season.
Torres also failed to impress in his contract year, aside from a strong ALCS against Cleveland, and capped off his Yankees tenure with a disappointing World Series performance.
Angels GM Perry Minasian places a premium on player makeup, and Torres’ perceived high-maintenance attitude, coupled with his resistance to moving to third base despite poor second-base metrics, may have deterred the team. Ultimately, the Angels opted not to outbid the Tigers for his services.
Many Angels fans were relieved by the decision, as Torres wasn’t a preferred option for them—even on a one-year deal. Fans remain loyal to Luis Rengifo despite some worrisome underlying stats and are eager to see other players like Hye-Seong Kim, Ha-Seong Kim, or highly-touted prospect Christian Moore.
Moore, the 8th overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, is seen as a future cornerstone for the team alongside Zach Neto, who was the 13th pick in 2022. Had Moore not been sidelined by injury last season, he might have already debuted in the majors. Fans are excited by the potential of a Neto-Moore double-play combo, hoping it will become a mainstay for years to come.
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