Angels All-Star Free Agent Signing Showed Up to Camp Nearly 60 Pounds Lighter
One of the Angels' most interesting additions this offseason comes in the form of former All-Star Miguel Sanó, who signed with the team last month on a minor league deal.
Sanó is looking to build his baseball career back up after a couple tough seasons. He's spent his entire career with the Minnesota Twins but is excited about his opportunity with the Angels.
After dealing with visa issues, Sanó is finally in camp with the Angels, and showed up 58 pounds lighter than he had been. Sanó talked about the decision to shed weight, as he's hoping it leads to better results on the field.
“It was very important,” Sanó said through his interpreter. “I wanted to feel better and lighter. And that will lead to a better performance on the field.”
Sanó didn't play in 2023, and last took the field with the Twins in 2022. The veteran slugger was one of the better power-hitters for a few years, hitting 34 home runs in 2019.
Sanó hit 30 home runs in 2021 but has struggled with his batting average and consistency over the years. He is ready to prove that he can prolong his MLB career.
“I’m just excited to be here and for another open door,” Sanó said “I’m very thankful to God to give me another opportunity in my career. I took these last two years to rehab and work hard and lose weight. I feel great.”
The Angels are hopeful he can provide them with some extra power in their lineup, especially on his minor-league contract. Angels general manager Perry Minasian spoke about Sanó, saying he's looked good thus far at camp.
“He looks good,” Minasian said. “I understand wanting the shiny toys and fancy signings, but to be a good team you need stories, right? You need some guys that kind of emerge that maybe aren't talked about or younger guys developing. He’s somebody that we really liked going into the offseason. He proved that he was healthy, played in winter ball, played well and so we thought we should take a shot.”
This may be Sanó's last chance to make his mark in baseball, so he is looking to make an impact. Hopefully, for everyone involved, Sanó can be productive once again and help the Angels end their long playoff drought.
