Angels Consider Trading Soler Amid Ongoing Struggles

ANAHEIM, California — Los Angeles Angels outfielder and designated hitter Jorge Soler is currently the standout among the team’s offseason acquisitions. As of Friday, he has a batting line of .229/.290/.441 with six home runs and 13 RBIs, contributing a .731 OPS.

The Angels acquired Soler less than 24 hours after the World Series concluded, aiming to add another power hitter to their lineup. However, despite his respectable performance, the Angels find themselves with a disappointing 13-20 record, raising concerns that their season could end prematurely.

If this downward trend continues, general manager Perry Minasian may look to use this year’s trade deadline in July to unload some player salaries and bolster their farm system. Soler could potentially be a valuable asset for teams seeking power hitters, especially if he maintains his current performance.

The Athletic recently linked Soler to his previous team, the Kansas City Royals, who are struggling offensively. On Saturday, they ranked last in the majors for home runs with only 15. The Royals have since shown signs of improvement, hitting three home runs on Saturday and a franchise-record seven on Sunday. However, they still require more power to compete for postseason spots.

Bowden suggested that a trade could involve the Angels receiving right-handed pitcher Ben Kudrna in exchange for Soler. Kudrna, who has a 5.23 ERA in five starts at Double-A this season, is considered a promising prospect, ranked No. 8 in the Royals’ farm system.

Meanwhile, the Angels returned to winning on Tuesday, securing an 8-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, which improved their record to 14-20. The team has experienced significant roster changes, including activating an infielder who hit a three-run homer during the game. However, one outfielder had to leave the game due to a leg injury that appeared serious.

An insider has indicated that the Angels should think about trading an All-Star outfielder given their struggles, including losing eight out of ten games. Whether the recent victory is enough to change their direction remains to be seen.