Los Angeles Angels: Three free agent targets to pursue this offseason

1. 2B Neil Walker

The Los Angeles Angels are at a bit of a crossroads at the second base position. Prior to last season, the Angels traded for Nationals’ shortstop Danny Espinosa to play second base. That stint did not last long, as Espinosa lasted until July where he was designated for assignment and eventually released on July 22.

The Angels then traded for veteran second baseman Brandon Phillips at the August 31 non-waiver trade deadline. Phillips played 24 games with the Angels during their playoff push, batting .255 with two home runs and eight RBIs. As great as Phillips’ career has been, his poor performance likely will not render a resigning.

Thus, the Angels must hit the free agent market for a second baseman. The team has no viable second base option, so the hole is only fillable via free agency. Therefore, the Angels should pursue the best second baseman on the market — Neil Walker.

Walker is no longer a premier second baseman as he used to be, but he is a good option for the Angels to plug and play every day. Last season, split between the New York Mets and Milwaukee Brewers, Walker hit .265 with 14 home runs and 59 runs scored in just 111 games played.

Walker is a short-term option for the Halos that is much needed. A one-year deal, with a second-year team option, is the best deal for the Angels.