The Los Angeles Angels signed veteran outfielder Aaron Hicks to a one-year deal on Monday, and on Tuesday, he spoke to the Anaheim media for the first time. In his introductory press conference, he revealed why he signed with the Angels in free agency.
"As far as fit goes, I think that the opportunity to come here and play pretty much every single day, to be able to play all three positions and also at the same time for me be close to my family in California."
As reporters began running with the story that Hicks was told he'd be the everyday outfielder, Hicks clarified his statement through the Angels.
"What I meant to say is that I am preparing myself to play every day. That’s how I approach every season and that is always my goal."
Hicks is joining a crowded outfield that includes Mike Trout, Taylor Ward, Mickey Moniak and Jo Adell.
Trout and Ward are obvious everyday players, while Moniak enjoyed a breakout year in 2023, slashing .280/.307/.495 with 14 home runs and 45 RBIs in 85 games.
However, Moniak struggled against left-handed pitching, sporting an OPS of just .548. Conversely, Hicks dominated left-handed pitching in 2023, sporting an OPS of .970. Against right-handed pitching, he had an OPS of .663.
It makes a ton of sense of Hicks to be the everyday outfielder against left-handers, and it sounds like the Angels agree. That's not to say Hicks won't get opportunities against right-handed pitching — especially when the Angels choose to play Trout or Hicks at DH — but he'll likely be in a platoon with Moniak to open the season.
With those four players manning the outfield on an everyday basis, Adell appears to be the odd man out.
The 24-year-old is out of minor league options, so the Angels have to keep him on the active roster, or risk losing him on waivers if they want to send him down.
The Angels still have plenty of time to find a trade partner for Adell, but for now, general manager Perry Minasian made it sound like the Angels are happy to keep five outfielders on the roster.
"As currently constructed we still have room for everyone."
As for Hicks, he also noted he wanted to play in Anaheim and under new manager Ron Washington.
He has high expectations for the Halos in 2024.
"This team has the opportunity to surprise some people."
Hicks resurrected his 2023 season after joining the Baltimore Orioles, slashing .275/.381/.425 with seven home runs and 31 RBIs in 65 games.
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