The Los Angeles Angels are about to welcome a seasoned veteran to their roster, but will he be the missing piece they need? Angels are signing Adam Frazier to a minor league contract, with an invitation to showcase his skills in the MLB Spring Training. This move adds to the team's intriguing strategy for the upcoming season.
Frazier, a 10-year MLB veteran, has had a journeyman's career, playing for five different teams. Last season, he divided his time between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Kansas City Royals. Despite a challenging stint with the Pirates, Frazier demonstrated his adaptability by playing four different positions for the Royals while maintaining near-average offensive production.
Once a dependable hitter with a versatile skill set, Frazier's best days seem to be behind him. His last wRC+ above 100 was five years ago. Drafted by the Pirates in 2013, he made his MLB debut three years later. By 2017, he had established himself as a regular, splitting his time between second base and the outfield. For the next four seasons, he was a consistent presence in the lineup.
The 2021 season was a standout year for Frazier, earning him his only All-Star selection. However, this success also marked the end of his time in Pittsburgh. As the table-setter for the Pirates, he hit an impressive .324 in the first half. He was then traded to the San Diego Padres before the deadline for three players. But here's where it gets interesting...
Frazier's journey since leaving Pittsburgh has been a nomadic one. He returned to the Pirates this past offseason after stints with the Padres, Seattle Mariners, Baltimore Orioles, and the Royals. The Pirates then traded him to the Royals mid-season for Cam Devanney.
The Angels' strategy this offseason has been to accumulate veteran players, particularly at second base, where the situation is less than ideal. Frazier joins a group of non-roster invitees with MLB experience, including Chris Taylor, Nick Madrigal, Yolmer Sanchez, and Donovan Walton. The current second base situation includes Christian Moore, Vaughn Grissom, and Oswald Peraza. As a left-handed batter, Frazier may have an advantage in securing a roster spot over the right-handed Moore and Peraza.
This signing raises questions about the Angels' long-term plans for the position. Is Frazier a short-term solution, or does he have the potential to be a key contributor for years to come? Only time will tell. What do you think about this move by the Angels? Is Frazier the right fit for their needs, or is there a better option out there?
