Angels, Kevin Newman nears deal, sources say: How the veteran infielder fits with Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Angels and versatile veteran infielder Kevin Newman are nearing a deal, league sources said Thursday.

The 31-year-old Newman had an fWAR of 1.4 last season, his best since 2019, thanks in large part to great defense at shortstop and second base. While playing for the Arizona Diamondbacks last season, he also made appearances at first base, third base and left field. In 311 plate appearances, he slashed .278/.311/.375 with three home runs and eight stolen bases.

Early in the offseason, the Angels have already made some notable moves involving other veterans. On Tuesday, the Angels signed catcher Travis d’Arnaud to a two-year contract. They already have a strong catcher in Logan O’Hoppe, but d’Arnaud is expected to take on an experienced backup/mentor role.

They also signed starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks to a one-year deal. Additionally, the Angels acquired outfielder Jorge Soler in a trade with the Atlanta Braves for pitcher Griffin Canning. They also acquired infielder Scott Kingery in a trade with the Philadelphia Phillies.

How Newman fits in with Angels

The Angels are not expected to start the season without shortstop Zach Neto. He underwent right shoulder surgery last week, although the team declined to specify what injury or surgery he received. Newman accounted for 10 defensive runs saved in the center infield last season and will be a viable placeholder until Neto returns.

The big picture: Newman could be in line for a starting job at second base. Angels GM Perry Minasian has made it clear that beleaguered third baseman Anthony Rendon is not guaranteed a 2025 roster spot, let alone a starting job. If Luis Rengifo becomes the everyday third baseman, that will create an opening at second base.

Minasian was the busiest executive this offseason, adding a slew of veterans to bolster the Angels’ depth. The team is coming off the worst season in their franchise’s history, dropping 99 games to finish deep in last place in the American League West.

Once the Newman deal is completed, all four players they added will be at least 31 years old. With owner Arte Moreno indicating they plan to compete in 2025, they will rely on experience in the hope of adding at least 25 wins to last year’s total. — Sam Blum, Angels staff writer

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(Photo: Megan Briggs/Getty Images)