Angels Searching for New Second Baseman After Luis Rengifo's Departure

Multiple players vying for the open position as the Angels look to improve on a 90-loss season

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:18am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Los Angeles Angels are facing an open competition at second base this spring training after the departure of Luis Rengifo in free agency. Several players, including top prospect Christian Moore, veteran infielders Oswald Peraza, Vaughn Grissom, Nick Madrigal, Adam Frazier, and Chris Taylor, as well as Jeimer Candelario, are all in the mix for the starting job. The Angels are hoping one of these candidates will emerge and solidify the position as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 90-loss campaign.

Why it matters

The Angels' second base situation is a key question mark as they try to improve on last season's poor performance. Settling the position with a productive player could help provide stability to the lineup and infield defense. However, the lack of a clear frontrunner raises concerns about the team's depth and ability to address this need effectively.

The details

The Angels have a wide range of options to choose from at second base, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Christian Moore, a former top-10 draft pick, struggled in his first MLB stint last year but remains a big part of the team's future plans. Oswald Peraza and Vaughn Grissom are both out of options and vying for roster spots, with Peraza seen as the better defender. Veterans Nick Madrigal, Adam Frazier, and Chris Taylor provide experienced options, while the Angels are also giving Jeimer Candelario a look at the position despite his limited experience there.

  • The Angels' second base competition is taking place during 2023 spring training.

The players

Christian Moore

A former top-10 draft pick and top-100 prospect who made his MLB debut with the Angels last year, struggling at the plate but still considered a key part of the team's future.

Oswald Peraza

An infielder regarded as a strong defender who can play multiple positions, including second base, shortstop, and third base.

Vaughn Grissom

An infielder who has not yet cracked the majors and has posted middling numbers in the minors, but is also competing for a roster spot with the Angels.

Nick Madrigal

A former top prospect who is coming off an injury-plagued season but brings excellent contact skills to the table.

Adam Frazier

A veteran utility player with experience at second base and in the outfield, who could provide a left-handed bat option for the Angels.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“While Moore undoubtedly remains a big part of the club's plans, it would not be a shock if the team decided he needs more time to develop in the minors.”

— Nick Deeds, Author (mlbtraderumors.com)

What’s next

The Angels will continue to evaluate their second base options throughout spring training, with a decision likely coming closer to the start of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Angels' second base competition highlights the team's need to find stability and production at a key position as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 season. The wide range of candidates suggests the Angels may still be searching for the right long-term solution at the keystone.