Angels sign veteran outfielder in wake of Mike Trout injury
Apr 15, 2020; Anaheim, California, USA; General overall view of the Los Angeles Angels logo at Angel Stadium of Anaheim amid the global coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY NETWORK
The Los Angeles Angels will need to survive without Mike Trout for the foreseeable future. The Angels’ latest signing provides depth for the team’s outfield in the meantime.
The Angels on Tuesday signed veteran outfielder Kevin Pillar to a one-year deal, according to FanSided reporter Robert Murray.
The Angels have signed outfielder Kevin Pillar to a one-year contract.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) May 1, 2024
Angels general manager Perry Minasian confirmed on Tuesday that Trout is dealing with a torn meniscus in his left knee. While Trout’s injury isn’t expected to be season-ending, the team still has no timetable for the 3-time MVP’s return.
Trout has struggled at the plate this season through his first 29 games. The 32-year-old has batted just .220 with a .325 on-base percentage. Both figures would be the lowest since Trout’s 40-game rookie campaign.
Trout has also mashed 10 home runs — tied for the best in the majors entering Tuesday’s contests.
Pillar brings 12 years of MLB experience to the Angels’ outfield. The 35-year-old is a strong defender who has played at center field for most of his career. Pillar is one of 17 active players with at least 50 outfield assists.
However, Pillar hasn’t had a good season at the plate in quite some time. He was designated for assignment by the Chicago White Sox last week before the Angels picked him up. Pillar batted .160 with 1 home run and 4 RBIs across 17 games played with the White Sox this season.
