As the Angels gear up for the 2026 season, they find themselves at a crossroads, hoping to shake off last year’s 90-loss campaign. Despite having Mike Trout healthy, the team’s roster remains largely unchanged, leaving fans wondering if this year might finally break the cycle of mediocrity.
A key decision looming for the Angels is who will take over at second base. With Luis Rengifo departing in free agency, the team opted against signing a big-name replacement like Gleyber Torres or Brandon Lowe.
Instead, they’re holding an open competition this spring, with several players vying for the spot. The question is: who will seize the opportunity?
Christian Moore, a former top-10 draft pick and top-100 prospect, is a leading candidate. He made his MLB debut last year but struggled to find his footing, hitting just .198/.284/.370 over 53 games. At only 22, those numbers aren't alarming, but his 33.7% strikeout rate and a tough spring (.175/.233/.250) suggest he might need more seasoning in the minors.
If Moore isn’t ready, the Angels have other options. Oswald Peraza and Vaughn Grissom are both on the roster bubble.
Peraza, known for his defensive versatility, can cover second, third, and shortstop. Although his career batting stats are underwhelming, he's having a strong spring, hitting .324/.378/.647.
Grissom, meanwhile, didn’t make the majors last year and has been average in Triple-A, posting a .185/.333/.269 line this spring.
Peraza’s defensive skills might make him a valuable utility player, backing up Zach Neto and Yoan Moncada. This could open the door for non-roster veterans like Nick Madrigal, Adam Frazier, and Chris Taylor.
Taylor, despite recent struggles, has been solid this spring and offers versatility. Frazier, hitting .353/.476/.412 in spring, could provide a left-handed option in a right-heavy lineup.
Madrigal, recovering from an injury-riddled season, is a contact hitter with a career .274/.323/.344 slash line and a mere 9.0% strikeout rate. His spring performance (.333/.391/.429) shows promise.
An intriguing wild card is Jeimer Candelario. Primarily an infield corner player, his experience at second is limited, but he’s impressed in camp with a .267/.353/.567 line. Despite last year’s struggles with the Reds, the Angels might be tempted to see if his bat can find a place in their lineup.
The decision on who will anchor second base is pivotal for the Angels’ hopes this season. Will they trust Moore with another shot, or opt for the reliability of veterans like Peraza, Frazier, or Madrigal?
Perhaps they’ll gamble on Candelario’s untested potential at the keystone. It’s a decision that could shape the team’s trajectory, and fans will be watching closely to see who emerges victorious.