“Angels acquire Scott Kingery from Phillies.”

The Angels acquired an infielder Scott Kingery from the Phillies for a cash payment, according to statements from both clubs. Kingery was not on Philadelphia's 40-man roster and does not have to take a spot with the Angels.

Kingery, 31 in April, was once a highly touted candidate. The Phils had so much confidence in his future that they signed him to a long-term contract extension before he had even made his major league debut. In March 2018, the Phils gave Kingery a $24 million guarantee for the 2018–2023 season, with three club options.

Unfortunately, Kingery was unable to live up to his expectations or this contract. He can steal a few bases and play defense anywhere on the diamond, but he just doesn't have enough hitting to be a useful big league player. He currently has a batting line of just .229/.280/.387 in 1,127 plate appearances in the majors.

The Phils cut him from their roster entirely in both 2021 and 2022, and no club was willing to accept the remainder of the contract due to waivers. He had exceeded three years of service and had the right to elect free agency rather than accept these direct assignments. However, since he had not yet completed five years of service, leaving would have meant the remainder of his contract would have been left on the table. Naturally, he reported to the minors and continued to play out the remainder of his deal. The Phils declined his club option for '24, but he remained with the organization at that point as well.

Although the deal fell through, Kingery just completed a solid season in the minors. He made 505 plate appearances for the IronPigs and hit 25 home runs. The offensive environment in the International League was quite strong this year, so his robust .268/.316/.488 line was only slightly above league average, which equates to a wRC+ of 104.

Kingery stole 25 bases and continued to bounce around the diamond this year, playing second base, shortstop and center field. He has experience at third base and in the outfield corners.

With these traits, he could perhaps be a useful player even in a semi-competent offense. That's something he hasn't done so far in his major league career, but it's a low-risk move for the Angels since Kingery doesn't even hold a roster spot for now.

The Angels have a few question marks in their position player mix. Luis Rengifo Projects as the best second base option, but his 2024 was cut short by wrist surgery. Even if he returns healthy, he may need to move to other positions. Third baseman Anthony Rendon has been extremely injury-prone in recent years and Rengifo often had to cover the hot corner. Mike Trout has also missed a lot of time in midfield recently and could be moved to a corner or designated strike point more often in the future.

Kingery can give them additional minor league depth across the diamond. He will try to secure a place in the squad and the chance to make a breakthrough after the hype.