Los Angeles Angels Acquire Shane Victorino From Boston


The Los Angeles Angels, in anticipation of an ugly American League West race with Houston, have acquired Shane Victorino from Boston. Victorino, hitting slightly under his career average (.245), would improve an awful hitting left-field position averaging well below average (.211) and offer speed in return. In exchange, Boston gets INF Josh Rutledge and one less headache this offseason. Being north of 33 and injury prone, it’s uncertain why the Angels chose Victorino over the more versatile Ben Zobrist.

Rutledge, 26, had spent his whole MLB career in Colorado before being acquired by Los Angeles Angels. He’s currently in their minor league system and hasn’t played for the Angels yet this season after being beat out for a roster spot by Tyler Featherston in spring ball. His youth and speed will help Boston rebuild their own infield, currently mired in an age and injury crisis. Boston, also expected to listen to offers on Koji Uehara and Mike Napoli, has gone into rebuild mode despite being within reach of the second wild card spot.

Los Angeles Angels will gobble $1.1 million of the $4.9 million remaining under his contract, a small price for an incredible utility player. Having an impactful corner outfielder definitely puts Los Angeles ahead of Houston in that category, although pitching still needs a much-needed lift. Victorino, 34, broke into the bigs with San Diego in 2003 before spending 2005-2012 with Philadelphia. He’s also played with the Dodgers, although his best seasons were with Phillies during their “glory years” and has a combined 108 homers and 486 RBIs in 12 seasons.

Matt Joyce was supposed to be the Los Angeles Angels’ main left fielder, although his paltry hitting (.178) has contributed to Los Angeles’ lack of production in that corner. He most certainly will be under observation after Sunday’s game as he may have concussed. Victorino, who was scheduled to play in tonight’s series opener against the White Sox, will have $3.8 million sent with him and slot into Joyce’s role. His two World Series rings will help inspire Mike Trout and Co. to relentlessly pursue an American League West crown.

The Los Angeles Angels may not be done. Having been rumored to have interest in Cole Hamels and several Padres pitchers, the week has just begun yet Los Angeles just gained playoff traction and positioned themselves to add another arm like Hamels or James Shields, the latter with American League pitching experience. Against nearest rival Texas, the Angels have seven remaining games; the Halos and Houston begin the first of nine remaining games against each other Tuesday, with CJ Wilson taking on Collin McHugh in the opener, which Victorino will more than likely report to.

[Photo by Jim Rogash / Getty Images Sport]

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