Los Angeles Angels
Committed payroll for 2016: $139.8 MM
Incumbent outfielders: Mike Trout, Kole Calhoun, David Murphy
Outfield was one of the weaker positions for the Angels, who missed out on the playoffs this year. Trout has centerfield on lockdown, but the other two positions are up for grabs. Calhoun has the makings of a solid, if unspectacular player. Murphy was acquired after the leftfielders the Angels tried to make due with after unceremoniously parting ways with Josh Hamilton fizzled big time.
Murphy has an option for 2016, but that may not be exercised. That decision is coming. Murphy is a solid corner outfielder, but his option is for $7 MM. A team like the Angels would prefer to see a player like Murphy in more of a fourth-outfielder role. There are better options for left field on the open market, and the Angels should pursue those players.
Los Angeles needs to bulk up its lineup surrounding Trout. Albert Pujols is in decline, and the rest of the roster is comprised of low-average hitters. Trout is very vulnerable. Cespedes would provide plenty of protection for Trout, and is already familiar with playing on the West Coast. Expect Arte Moreno to be aggressive on the free-agent market this winter. Cespedes could be a target.
The Angels let Murphy go already.
yep. article was written yesterday morning before the decision was made. not a surprising decision to pass on murphy.