February 4, 2024

Los Angeles Angels outfielder Jo Adell has an uncertain future after the team signed veteran Aaron Hicks to help shore up their outfield. Hicks is primed to open the year in the outfield mix along with Mike Trout, Taylor Ward, and Mickey Moniak. Adell would appear to be on the outside looking in at the moment. The 24-year-old former top prospect has largely struggled in the majors, slashing just .214/.259/.366 with 18 home runs, 66 RBI, and seven stolen bases in 580 at-bats across four seasons. He had a chance to see regular playing time down the stretch last season due to all of the injuries that the Angels suffered but he suffered an oblique strain himself, which kept him out for two months. What makes this a tricky scenario is that Adell is out of minor-league options. If he doesn't make the opening day roster then he would land on waivers where he would most likely be claimed by another club. A change of scenery wouldn't be the worst thing for him but as of now, he's on the 40-man roster and has a chance to make the opening-day roster, according to general manager Perry Minasian. The GM cited that Hicks' signing shouldn't affect Adell's roster chances because injuries happen and depth is vital to any organization. With all of that said, the path to everyday at-bats seems slim for Adell and given his past struggles, he likely won't be given the benefit of the doubt unless an injury clears a path for him.--Jon Mathisen - RotoBaller
Source: Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com