With the baseball Hot-Stove heating up, there are plenty of big names searching for new homes.
One of those big names is Tim Anderson … And according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, one American League club is particularly interested.
Nightengale reports that the Los Angeles Angels have expressed a “strong interest” in Anderson and consider him as a viable candidate for their second base job.
Anderson, primarily a shortstop throughout his eight-year career in the majors, has signaled his willingness to transition to second base.
In a statement to MLB.com’s Scott Merkin, Anderson made it clear he’s open to the potential position switch…
“Really, at this point, it doesn’t matter. I’m a shortstop/second baseman,” Anderson said. “It’s whatever to allow my career to keep going. I’m not going to wrestle with a team that I’m this or I’m that. It’s just an honor and a blessing to fit in any lineup as a starter considering how hard this game is.”
“Short would be my first choice, but I also understand how older guys are viewed, now that I’m stepping into that phase, which sucks and is different … I just want to continue to keep building on what I started and get back to what I used to be,” he added.
The Angels are reportedly "expressing strong interest" in Tim Anderson, per @BNightengale pic.twitter.com/yQd0koBfVw
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) November 13, 2023
Despite a challenging season with the Chicago White Sox, Anderson’s track record is solid, including a four-year run from 2019-2022 that featured two All-Star appearances, a Silver Slugger Award, and a batting title.
However, a knee sprain early in the 2023 season affected his performance, leading to the White Sox declining their $14MM club option for 2024, making Anderson a free agent.
The Angels, seeking to bolster their roster after a disappointing season, might see Anderson as a potential bounce-back candidate.
General Manager Perry Minasian’s strategy of adding shorter-term deals last winter did not yield the desired results, and with the expected departure of Shohei Ohtani in free agency, the Angels are exploring options to enhance their roster.
It’s speculated that Anderson may pursue a one-year contract this winter to showcase his skills and potentially secure a more lucrative deal next offseason.
Zach Neto is expected to be the primary shortstop, but having Anderson would provide valuable depth.
Anderson’s potential move to second base aligns with the Angels needs. His versatility would be valuable, especially in the case of performance struggles or injuries.
Should the Angels go after Anderson?
What type of contract do you think he’s deserving of???