The Los Angeles Angels have wasted no time stirring up the offseason, trading for two-time World Series champion Jorge Soler from the Atlanta Braves in a move that brings experience and much-needed power to their lineup. Just hours after the Dodgers sealed the 2024 World Series, the Angels swung this deal, sending right-handed pitcher Griffin Canning to the Braves in exchange for the slugging Cuban outfielder.
For Soler, who began the 2024 season with the San Francisco Giants before being dealt to Atlanta, this marks yet another chapter in his winding MLB journey. He wrapped up the season with 21 home runs, 64 RBIs, and a .241 batting average, adding to his reputation as a power hitter with postseason chops. His résumé includes a World Series MVP nod with the Braves in 2021, thanks to a clutch performance that featured three home runs and six RBIs with a .300 batting average against the Astros.
With the Angels coming off a tough 63-99 season, GM Perry Minasian hopes that Soler can bring both offensive spark and veteran leadership to an Anaheim squad sorely missing both. After losing Shohei Ohtani to free agency and dealing with another injury-plagued season for Mike Trout, the Angels’ lineup was in desperate need of reinforcement. Minasian believes Soler’s long-ball potential and October experience could provide that missing edge.
However, the move wasn’t without its critics. Given the Angels’ dismal season, fans took to social media with mixed reactions. Some trolls were quick to pounce, with one remarking, “Angels found their Ohtani replacement,” and another claiming, “His career is cooked.” Despite the skepticism, Soler’s record speaks for itself: he’s a two-time champion and one of the most dangerous power hitters when healthy and locked in.
For the Angels, landing Soler signals a fresh start, though they still have plenty of work to do if they hope to contend in a highly competitive American League West. The team will be banking on Soler’s postseason pedigree to ignite their offense, hoping he can deliver the kind of impact he brought to Chicago and Atlanta in their championship runs.
Whether Soler can help lift the Angels remains to be seen, but the franchise is counting on his bat to lead the way as they head into a crucial offseason.
