Los Angeles Angels: 2023 outlook for Brett Phillips looks strong

The Los Angeles Angels signed veteran Brett Phillips to a one-year contract to the tune of $1.2 million back in January. Phillips will serve as the fourth outfielder behind Mike Trout, Hunter Renfroe, and Taylor Ward. While some will question his recent numbers, there is no questioning the joy that he brings to the game.

Phillips has long been a top-notch defender and base runner but, at times, has struggled with the bat. Last year was his worst offensive season to date. Across 83 games and 225 PAs (all but eight games and 17 plate appearances with the Tampa Bay Rays, with the rest coming with the Baltimore Orioles), he slashed .144/.217/.249 and hit five homers with seven stolen bases.

With those offensive numbers from last year, why would the Angels sign Phillips to a major league contract, even if it is for just one year? Well, part of the obvious game plan is to utilize his defensive play. According to Baseball Savant, Phillips ranked in the 99th percentile for Outfielder Jump and 97th for Arm Strength. For a fourth outfielder to be able to come in late in games as a defensive replacement, it can make a big difference for a team that is pushing to get back to relevance in the tough AL West.

Los Angeles Angels: Brett Phillips poised for comeback season

Not only is Phillips great at defense, but he can steal bases as well. The stolen base has been somewhat a tool of the past in MLB for quite some time. Now with the new larger bases, pitch clock, pickoff limitations, and greater enforcement of the balk rules, there is no doubt that we are going to see an uptick in swiped bags in 2023. Phillips is the kind of guy that can come in and get to second base, even when everyone in the stadium knows that it is coming. That skill will be both useful and exciting when on display.

Another key component is that Phillips spent a lot of time this offseason revamping his swing with Trent Woodward, who is also the personal hitting instructor of fellow Angels outfielder Taylor Ward. There was obviously something there that piqued the interest of the Angels front office that helped lead to the major league contract. Ward had a breakout season in 2022, in large part to Woodward’s help. The Angels will be hoping for more of the same with Phillips this season.

And let’s not forget, that Brett Phillips is a great human being and a fantastic teammate. Those can’t be the only reasons to sign a player, but they are a part of the overall equation. His apparel line centered around his mantra, “Baseball is fun.” is great for the game of baseball.

The Angels not only improved their 2023 team by signing Phillips, but there is guaranteed to be more smiles on fans’ faces in the process. Have a season Brett, and thanks for having fun in the process!