Angels Outfield Options Offer Flexibility in 2026

New manager Kurt Suzuki has a crowded outfield to manage with Mike Trout, Jo Adell, Josh Lowe and others vying for playing time.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Los Angeles Angels have a surplus of outfield options heading into the 2026 season, giving new manager Kurt Suzuki flexibility in configuring his lineups. Superstar Mike Trout plans to move back to center field, while Jo Adell and Josh Lowe are expected to man the corner outfield spots. The team also has defensive-minded center field options like Bryce Teodosio and Jose Siri, as well as utility players with outfield experience. Suzuki said he hasn't finalized his plans yet, but wants to mix and match to get the best lineup on the field.

Why it matters

The Angels' outfield depth gives them options to optimize their lineup and defense, but also presents challenges for Suzuki in managing playing time. Trout's return to center field could solve their need for an everyday center fielder, while allowing Adell and Lowe to play their more natural corner outfield positions. The team also has several other players competing for utility roles and outfield time, creating a competitive camp battle.

The details

Trout played right field last season but felt more comfortable in center, where he is expected to play most of the time in 2026. Adell was a Gold Glove finalist in right field in 2024 and is likely to stay there, while Lowe is expected to see time in left and center as well. Soler will also get some outfield starts, in addition to his designated hitter duties. Teodosio and Siri are the top defensive center field options, while players like Chris Taylor, Vaughn Grissom and Adam Frazier provide outfield depth and versatility.

  • The Angels' spring training camp is currently underway in Tempe, Arizona.

The players

Mike Trout

Superstar outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels who plans to move back to center field in 2026 after playing right field last season.

Jo Adell

Angels outfielder who played more games in center field than right field in 2025, but is better suited defensively for right field.

Josh Lowe

Outfielder acquired by the Angels in a trade with the Rays, who has mostly played right field in his career but is expected to see time in left and center field as well.

Jorge Soler

Angels designated hitter who will also get occasional starts in the outfield in 2026.

Kurt Suzuki

New manager of the Los Angeles Angels who will have to manage the team's outfield depth and playing time this season.

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What they’re saying

“We want options and to be able to mix and match and put people in different spots. It's early in camp, and then as we kind of settle in toward the end, we can kind of hone in to where they're going to play during the season.”

— Kurt Suzuki, Manager, Los Angeles Angels (mlb.com)

What’s next

The Angels will continue to evaluate their outfield options throughout spring training, with Suzuki likely finalizing his plans closer to the start of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Angels' outfield depth gives them flexibility to optimize their lineup, but also presents challenges for new manager Kurt Suzuki in managing playing time and determining the best defensive alignment. Trout's return to center field could be a key move, allowing other players to settle into their more natural positions.