The January 20, 2016 edition of Los Angeles Angels news includes a long-time bench player being placed on the waiver wire, season tickets selling at a steady rate despite the lack of a “big splash” signing this winter, and more…
The Story: Angels DFA Efren Navarro to make room for Al Alburquerque
MWAH Says: Did not see this one coming, especially with optionable guys like Jett Bandy and Taylor Featherston also occupying roster spots. I thought Navarro’s strong glove, versatility, and reliable lefty bat would make him a shoo-in for a corner bench spot. Now the only line of defense between 1B/DH and a black hole on Opening Day is Rule 5 draftee Ji-Man Choi. Seems needlessly risky. There’s always the chance Navarro gets optioned to the minors, I suppose, but I have a hard time seeing him make it through waivers without being claimed.
The Story: Lack of big move hasn’t hurt season-ticket sales
MWAH Says: The Angels are on pace to sell at least 17,000 season-ticket packages by Opening Day, which would put them even with last year’s final tally. Mike DiGiovanna seems surprised by this, and I’m not really sure why. So long as the team is around, they’re going to sell tickets.
The Story: Al Alburquerque’s contract is not guaranteed
MWAH Says: If the Angels decide that Alburquerque can’t elevate his game enough to reach the Opening Day roster, they can cut him and pay out only a quarter of his $1.1 million salary. It’s a nice failsafe for the club, but makes the Efren Navarro DFA that much more questionable.
The Story: RHP Yunesky Maya, C Juan Graterol invited to spring training
MWAH Says: Let the adding of upper-minors depth masquerading as non-roster invitees commence! Maya (34) hasn’t pitched in MLB since 2013 and Graterol (29) has never made it beyond Triple-A.
The Story: Dodgers sign Joe Blanton to one-year, $4 million deal
MWAH Says: Scott Kazmir AND Joe Blanton? I think L.A. is officially trolling the Angels now.
The Story: Padres sign Fernando Rodney to big-league deal
MWAH Says: Meanwhile, down the 5 in the other direction, San Diego signs a slightly less reviled former Angels pitcher.
The Story: My dad, and the Yankees
MWAH Says: A touching story from Stacey Gotsulias about how her baseball fandom will always be intrinsically tied to her father. Hits you right in the feels.
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