The Los Angeles Angels have made a surprising roster move, reportedly releasing outfielder Mickey Moniak, the former first overall draft pick who was vying for the starting center field position.
This decision, coming just two days before Opening Day, is particularly unexpected given Moniak’s career-high in games played last season. Jeff Passan of ESPN broke the news on Tuesday.
Los Angeles Angels Release Mickey Moniak
Despite his offensive struggles, Moniak was considered a reliable defensive outfielder, crucial for a team transitioning veteran Mike Trout to right field. However, his spring training performance, characterized by a .173 batting average and 18 strikeouts, likely contributed to his release. While Moniak’s 2024 season started slowly, he did manage a respectable .254/.298/.479 slash line in 51 games.
This move signals a vote of confidence in Jo Adell, who was also competing for the starting center field role. Adell’s spring training numbers were a .180/.203/.393 slash line with 17 strikeouts were similarly concerning, but the Angels have chosen to move forward with him.
Several roster considerations likely factored into the Angels’ decision. Notably, the team needed to create a 40-man roster spot for infielder Tim Anderson, a two-time All-Star attempting a comeback after a challenging 2024 season with the Miami Marlins. Anderson’s spring training performance, a .263/.311/.333 slash line, and defensive reliability were deemed valuable, especially with shortstop Zach Neto starting the season on the injured list.
By designating Moniak for assignment, the Angels free up a roster spot for Anderson or another player. The financial implications of releasing Moniak are relatively minimal, as the Angels only owe him approximately $484,000 of his $2 million arbitration award.
Moniak, drafted first overall by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2016, was traded to the Angels in 2022. He showed promise in 2023, hitting .280/.307/.495 with 14 home runs in 85 games. However, his plate discipline remained a concern, with 113 strikeouts and only nine walks.
His 2024 season, while featuring career highs in games and plate appearances, saw him struggle to maintain a consistent batting average, ultimately finishing with 114 strikeouts and 21 walks. This marginal improvement, coupled with his poor spring training showing, ultimately led to his release.