The Los Angeles Angels have made a significant roster adjustment, opting to execute a LaMonte Wade Jr. release and, in a corresponding baseball transaction, selecting the contract of promising outfielder Bryce Teodosio. This strategic shift signals a new direction for the club as they navigate the current season, marking one of the notable MLB roster moves of late.

LaMonte Wade Jr., initially a ninth-round draft pick by the Minnesota Twins in 2015, began his major league journey appearing in 42 games for them early in his career. His tenure took a turn when he joined the San Francisco Giants prior to the 2021 season, where he truly began to establish himself as a capable first baseman.

From 2021 to 2024, Wade Jr. showcased quality hitting with the Giants, boasting a .248/.352/.415 slash line, equating to an impressive 115 wRC+. His peak came in 2021, crushing 18 home runs in 381 plate appearances, but his momentum was disrupted in 2022 by knee and hamstring issues, leading to below-average numbers.

Wade Jr.’s recent performance with the Giants in 2024 marked a shocking decline. Despite maintaining his characteristic plate discipline with a respectable strikeout and walk rate, a severely low .211 BABIP and a significant power outage rendered him unproductive, ultimately leading to his designation for assignment by San Francisco.

Following his trade to the Angels, hopes were high for Wade Jr. to integrate into their outfield mix. However, his struggles intensified in Anaheim, where his plate discipline completely abandoned him, resulting in a dismal 38 wRC+ over 73 plate appearances before his eventual release, now becoming part of Angels News regarding player movements.

Now a free agent, LaMonte Wade Jr. is available to sign with any interested club, though his recent performance suggests a minor league deal is more likely. Teams in need of first base depth for a playoff push might still see value in offering him an opportunity to regain his form in the minor leagues.

Filling the void is Bryce Teodosio, who previously made his MLB debut with the Angels last year. While his major league experience is limited, Teodosio immediately bolsters the team’s defense, stepping in as arguably the best defensive center fielder on the current roster, a significant aspect of the Bryce Teodosio call-up. Despite not being a prolific hitter at Triple-A, his speed and base-running prowess (40 stolen bases last year) promise to provide significant value for the Angels moving forward.