Zach Neto Makes Troubling Admission After Angels Trade Deadline

Gary A&period; Vasquez-Imagn Images

Zach Neto Makes Troubling Admission After Angels Trade Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Aug 6, 2026 2:55 PM ET

The Los Angeles Angels may have kept Zach Neto through the trade deadline, but the shortstop stopped short of saying the organization has committed to building around him long term.

Neto's comments came Thursday after the Angels adjusted their lineup, moving him out of the leadoff spot. When asked whether the front office had assured him he would remain a centerpiece after he wasn't traded, the 25-year-old declined to answer directly.

The exchange came after Neto was asked about the lineup change. He responded, "Feel good. I mean, I don't make the lineups." When MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger followed up by asking whether the Angels had given him assurances they planned to build around him after the trade deadline, Neto replied, "I'm not going to answer that."

Zach Neto on moving out of the leadoff spot: "Feel good. I mean, I don't make the lineups."

Neto on if he was given any assurances from the front office that they're going to build around him going forward after he wasn't traded: "I'm not going to answer that."
— Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) August 6, 2026

Those comments immediately fueled speculation about his future, especially with the Angels sitting at 43-71 and in last place in the American League West after another disappointing season.

Neto's remarks also came on a day that showcased his value. Batting in the cleanup spot, he hit a three-run homer, his 20th of the season, while becoming the first shortstop in franchise history to record three consecutive seasons with at least 20 home runs and 20 doubles.

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Zach Neto (9)Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Despite his historic milestone, questions about the organization's long-term direction remain. General manager Perry Minasian chose not to move Neto before the deadline, but the shortstop's refusal to confirm any discussions about the club's plans could keep his future in focus heading into the offseason.

Neto is under club control through the 2029 season via arbitration, giving the Angels flexibility if they decide to keep him as a cornerstone or explore trade options later. For now, however, his comments have added another layer of uncertainty to an already difficult season.

ALSO SEE:

https://athlonsports.com/mlb/los-angeles-angels/angels-donovan-walton-claimed-athletics

https://athlonsports.com/mlb/los-angeles-angels/angels-ben-joyce-rehab-assignment-arizona-complex-league

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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