Nov 2, 2013; Surprise, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Angels infielder C.J. Cron against the West during the Fall Stars Game at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim made several roster moves on Saturday, including calling up top their top power prospect C.J. Cron. Cron hit 27 home runs in 2012 at High-A and 14 last season in Double-A after launching 13 in just 34 games in Rookie ball after being drafted in the first round in 2011.
Going into this spring there was some talk he might make the big league club, but wound up being sent down to Triple-A Salt Lake City instead. In Triple-A, he had his best triple slash line since his brief time in Rookie ball, and the best average of his career, .319.
It is no surprise Cron was successful in Salt Lake as he went to college in the city at the University of Utah, but he looked good in the spring as well after an excellent Arizona Fall League. His bat made it easier for the Angels to trade Mark Trumbo this off-season, and despite most reports, I feel he is a more athletic first baseman than he gets credit for.
Room was made on the roster after David Freese was placed on the DL and J.B. Shuck was optioned to Triple-A. With Shuck sent down, Raul Ibanez will have to play the outfield allowing Cron to get regular playing time as the Angels designated hitter.
Also called up for the Angels is former top prospect Luis Jimenez, who will likely platoon with Ian Stewart at third base.
Cron is in the lineup and batting fifth for the Angels Saturday night against the Texas Rangers.