Halos claim INF Robel García off waivers
This browser does not support the video element.
ANAHEIM -- The Angels added some versatility on Wednesday, claiming utility man Robel García off waivers from the Mets. The club’s 40-man roster is now at 39.
García, 27, has one season of Major League experience, batting .208/.275/.500 with five homers, two doubles, two triples and 11 RBIs in 31 games with the Cubs in 2019. Angels skipper Joe Maddon was his manager that season.
García didn’t see any action in the Majors in 2020, and he was claimed off waivers by the Reds on July 26 before being selected off waivers again by the Mets on Oct. 26. He was designated for assignment by New York on Feb. 1 to make room for right-hander Jordan Yamamoto.
This browser does not support the video element.
García played second base, left field and right field with Chicago, but he has also played first base, third base and shortstop in the Minors. He also has one year left of Minor League options, which means he can be sent to and from the Minors this season without having to be exposed to waivers.
He figures to compete with Franklin Barreto and Luis Rengifo in Spring Training for a spot on the roster as a utility man. Barreto is out of options, however, which could give him an advantage over García, as the former would have to be exposed to waivers if he doesn’t make the Opening Day roster.
Barreto had left shoulder surgery on Sept. 22 but general manager Perry Minasian said on Wednesday that Barreto is currently healthy and will be ready for the start of Spring Training.