"After an all-too familiar losing season, even with playing more than he has in years, the Angels are headed into yet another offseason where they'll be looking to pull the franchise out of its rut and finally get back into contention. This year, the Angels have highlighted two areas they hope to improve headed into 2026: center field and third base."
"Trout moved off center field this past season in hopes of staying healthier. While he spent much of these season in a DH-only role, the club has indicated that they hope to use him in right field on a regular basis next year. That would allow Soler to reclaim his job as the club's regular DH, which would be good news given that playing the outfield this year in deference to Trout created some injury issues for Soler throughout the season."
"Adell handled center in Trout's place this year, and the former top prospect actually had a career year as he slugged 37 homers and posted a wRC+ of 112. He graded out disastrously with the glove in center field, however, and is clearly better suited for corner outfield duty. That's why the Angels would like to bring in a center fielder, but Ward had an excellent season in his own right as the club's left fielder with 36 home runs and a wRC+ of 117."
The Angels enter the offseason focused on improving center field and third base for 2026. Yoan Moncada's impending free agency leaves third base open aside from injured veteran Anthony Rendon whose future is unclear. The outfield currently includes Trout, Jorge Soler, Adell, and Taylor Ward, creating a roster logjam. Trout moved off center to preserve health and is expected to play right field while Soler returns to DH. Adell produced 37 homers and a 112 wRC+ but struggled defensively in center. Ward posted 36 homers and a 117 wRC+ and excelled in left. Adding a center fielder will require resolving the Adell–Ward situation.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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