Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington said Thursday said that shortstop Zach Neto will not be ready for Opening Day. However, he should make his season debut “soon after” in April, Jeff Flecther of the Orange County Register reports.
“We like the progress,” Washington said. “I think he’s gonna tell us how soon he can get back. No way it’s going to be the 27th of March.”
The expectation has been that Neto would need a stint on the injured list to start the season. Washington relaying that Neto is tracking toward an April return is good news. Neto underwent right shoulder surgery in November and began a throwing program early last week. It’s not clear yet when Neto will be cleared to play in games, but Washington’s time suggests the 24-year-old could see some Cactus League action before the end of spring training.
Zach Neto to Make Season Debut in April
In 2024, Neto had a breakout year on both offense and defense. He posted a .249/.318/.443 slash line, with 23 home runs and 30 stolen bases. While Defensive Runs Saved rates him as a plus defender, his 18 errors suggest there’s room for improvement. Neto led the Angels with a 5.1 bWAR.
As Neto rehabs, the Angels have several options at shortstop. The most likely candidate is Kevin Newman, who signed a one-year, $2.75 million deal shortly after Neto’s surgery. Newman filled in at shortstop for the Arizona Diamondbacks last season when Geraldo Perdomo was injured, hitting .278 with a .686 OPS.
Tim Anderson is also at spring training on a minor league deal. A two-time batting champion, Anderson’s career has stalled in recent years. There’s also Scott Kingery, who has played 138 games at shortstop. Luis Rengifo, meanwhile, is expected to see more time at second or third base, especially with Anthony Rendon set to undergo hip surgery and miss time.
Main Photo: © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
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