Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington announced that non-roster invite Miguel Sanó has earned a spot on the team’s Opening Day roster. Sanó, who will turn 31 in May, was in camp on a minor league deal and will need to be added to the 40-man roster. Washington praised Sanó for his hard work and deserving spot on the roster, noting that he has done everything asked of him.
Sanó began his major league career with the Minnesota Twins and was known as a potent power hitter, hitting 161 home runs from 2015 to 2021. However, his career took a turn for the worse due to injuries, limiting him to just 20 games in 2022. After the Twins bought out his option for 2023, Sanó focused on his health and lost 58 pounds before signing with the Angels on a minor-league deal. He played winter ball in the Dominican Republic and impressed the Angels with his performance this spring.
During spring training with the Angels, Sanó showcased his power with three home runs in 22 games. The team plans to utilize him as a third baseman and potentially at first base, given the injury history of Anthony Rendon and the limited experience of Nolan Schanuel. With Shohei Ohtani leaving for the Dodgers, the Angels have a gap at designated hitter which Sanó could fill. While specific plans for Sanó have not been outlined, the team has options to maximize his production.
Washington and the Angels have not disclosed detailed plans for how they will use Sanó during the season, but they see him as a versatile player who can contribute in various positions. With Rendon’s injury history and Schanuel’s limited experience, Sanó could play a significant role in the Angels’ infield. Additionally, with Ohtani’s departure, the team may rely on Sanó’s power at the plate to make up for the loss of a designated hitter. The Angels will look to optimize Sanó’s abilities to contribute effectively throughout the season.
Overall, Miguel Sanó’s journey to making the Angels’ Opening Day roster highlights his perseverance and dedication to overcoming setbacks in his career. After struggling with injuries and a decline in performance with the Twins, Sanó focused on his health and conditioning to earn a spot with the Angels. His impressive performance in spring training demonstrated his power at the plate and versatility in the field, giving the Angels additional options to strengthen their lineup. As the season progresses, Sanó will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and make a significant impact for the team.
