David Fletcher Says Trade From Angels Was 'A Little Surprising,' But Also Exciting
The Angels have been busy making minor trades this off-season. The front office must go in a different direction without Shohei Ohtani for the first time since 2017. Some of these moves indicate the direction the Angels could take.
Infielder David Fletcher and catcher Max Stassi were traded to the Atlanta Braves last week. It was a bittersweet moment for Fletcher, but one that excited him.
Fletcher is from Orange County, so playing for the Angels was a dream come true for him. He has spent his entire career with the Halos so far, so this move will be a change.
“When you’re with someone for so long, it’s just kind of a big change that happens fast. At the same time, it’s exciting. It’s a big change. But something that will definitely be good for my career.”
Fletcher ended up being outrighted by the Braves shortly after the trade. There is still a chance he can make the Braves' 40-man roster, but this was an unusual move by Atlanta, to say the least.
The Angels' decision to move on from Fletcher wasn't very shocking, but he was a little surprised. He understands Major League Baseball is a business, and any player can be moved at any time.
“A little surprising, but at the same time, not super surprising,” Fletcher told The Athletic in a phone interview on Monday. “When something like that happens, you’re always kind of a little shocked."
Fletcher only appeared in 33 games for the Angels last season, hitting .247 with two home runs and 12 runs batted in. He dealt with injury issues that ultimately hastened his exit off the team's 26-man roster. This trade to the Braves is a chance for Fletcher to begin a new journey, and he is fully embracing it all.
