The Los Angeles Angels have kicked off the MLB Free Agency, locking up a power bat for 2018 and beyond…
With a disappointing 2017 which saw a late playoff run fizzle out, the Los Angeles Angels are looking to build upon that 80-82, by keeping one of their power bats through 2022.
The Angels announced earlier this morning they have signed Justin Upton to a five-year contract.
Justin Upton’s annual payout: $16m in 2018, $18m 2019, $21m 2020, $23m 2021, $28m 2022
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) November 2, 2017
The Angels are putting a lot of stock and risk in Upton, with this long term contract.
Justin Upton’s deal with the Angels worth $106 million.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) November 2, 2017
Los Angeles acquired Upton during the playoff run last season from the Detroit Tigers. In 27 games with the Angels, Upton hit .245 to go with seven home runs and 15 RBI.
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His cumulative 2017 statistics added up to:
- Batting average: .273
- Home Runs: 35
- RBI: 109
- Runs:100
- Stolen Bases:14
- OBP: .361
Upton spent the first six seasons of his career with the Diamondbacks, with tenures with the Braves, Padres and the before mentioned Tigers.
He then took to Twitter, expressing his excitement in staying in sunny So-Cal for(likely) the conclusion of his career. with loving fans showing their excitement as well.
After the Los Angeles Angels’ signing of Justin Upton, the top remaining MLB Free Agents include:
- Yu Darvish: Pitcher
- Jake Arrieta: Pitcher
- Eric Hosmer: 1B
- Mike Moustakas: 3B
- Wade Davis: Relief Pitcher
- CC Sabathia: Pitcher
- Todd Frazier: 3B
- Lance Lynn: Pitcher
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It seems that Justin Upton has set the tone, with the contracts of other rogue players to be just as lofty. The Los Angeles Angels could just be getting started, a team in dire need of balance and more consistency.
MLB Free Agency is just kicking off, where the unexpected becomes the expected.