Despite the frustrating season for the team, Los Angeles Angels rookie infielder Zach Neto provided a spark to the team this season, even if the results on-field didn’t translate to much winning. But the rookie showed that he could produce in the major leagues, and looks to be the future at shortstop for the Halos.
Neto battled injuries throughout the year, but he never let them get him down. He wanted to help the Angels in whatever way he could, and whenever he was healthy, he did just that. But now as the team enters into the offseason, it is going to be key for him to continue building on his game.
After spending the year with the Angels, it has shown him a lot in regard to what it takes to get through a long season. 162 games over a few months can be grueling for everyone, but especially rookies since they aren’t used to the long season.
“I know how much rest I need, especially how important it is for me and my body,” Neto said. “I know what I’ve got to work on. Now when I go back home, I know what I have to do to make sure I become a better player coming back. It just all takes time. It all takes effort. Hopefully, I have the right group of people when I go back home, and all the resources I need to come back and be a better ballplayer.”
For the season, Neto has hit .223 with nine home runs and 34 runs batted in. It has been a long grind for him, but he has pushed through the best he can. He impacted the team in a great way, and they were very different without him in the lineup this season.
"While he has room to improve as a hitter, his defense was exceptional. Nevin said it was one of the reasons the Angels were better when he was in the lineup. The Angels are 39-39 when Neto starts, and 32-49 when he doesn’t."
This winter is going to be big for Neto to continue growing as a player. He is going to be counted on a lot more next season, and the Angels are banking on him getting even better than he was.
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