Right fielder Randal Grichuk. Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Angels give lineup a boost after trade with Rockies

By Michael Carpenter | Last updated 7/31/23

Fresh off adding pitchers Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez in a trade earlier in the week, the Angels have made another splash trying to keep pace with the moves others in their division are making.

Outfielder Randal Grichuk and designated hitter C.J. Cron have been dealt to the Angels in exchange for two pitching prospects.

OFFICIAL: The Angels have acquired INF C.J. Cron, OF Randal Grichuk, and cash considerations from the Colorado Rockies in exchange for minor league LHP Mason Albright and RHP Jake Madden. pic.twitter.com/ru01rhhQxY
— Los Angeles Angels (@Angels) July 31, 2023

Both drafted by the Angels organization, Grichuk and Cron are making a return back to Los Angeles.

Outfielder Taylor Ward suffered facial fractures after being hit by a pitch Saturday and was placed on the injured list Sunday. The Angels wasted no time finding his replacement.

Grichuk has had a great season at the dish and in the outfield for the struggling Rockies, slashing .308/.365/.496 with 28 XBH and 27 RBI. He will add a mix of power and speed while also possessing above-average defensive ability.

Randal Grichuk stays red hot pic.twitter.com/FGzyRmBYmp
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 29, 2023

Cron has spent time on the injured list this season but has still had solid production in 2023. In 56 games, he is hitting .260 with 11 home runs and 32 RBI and has looked great in his recent stretch of baseball.

With 25 or more home runs in four of his last five seasons, Cron should have plenty of opportunities to produce for the Angels.

Joining a lineup featuring phenom Shohei Ohtani and with Mike Trout working his way back from injury, the Angels will hope these two bats can help provide Ohtani with much-needed protection in the lineup.

Currently five games back in the American League West and four out of a wild-card spot, the Angels could look to make another move before the trade deadline is over.

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