Full Squad in Camp: Key Position Battles to Watch in Angels Camp
February 16, 2025 - Written by Bryan Whitfield
Mike Trout is moving back to centerfield for the 2026 season, per @BNightengale
— Just Baseball (@JustBB_Media) February 16, 2026
Trout was also not permitted to play in the WBC due to insurance. pic.twitter.com/if8g2b6226
The Angels officially held their first full squad workout of Spring Training today, and real baseball is right around the corner. The club is just five days away from its Cactus League opener against the Dodgers at 12:10 PM PT.
Last week we previewed the Angels pitching staff as pitchers and catchers reported. Now, with the entire roster in camp, it’s time to take a look at the position players and the roster battles that could shape the Opening Day lineup.
First Base
This position is firmly held by Nolan Schanuel, who is expected to start at first base on Opening Day. Schanuel said he focused on improving his bat speed this offseason under new hitting coach Brady Anderson and manager Kurt Suzuki.
The only other first base option currently on the 40 man roster is Oswald Peraza, who saw some time at the position after being acquired at the trade deadline last season.
The Angels also have more depth here than in recent years. Niko Kavadas is in camp as a non roster invitee, and both Trey Mancini and Jeimer Candelario were signed to minor league deals. Each will compete for a bench spot this spring.
Second Base
Second base may be one of the more interesting competitions in camp. While it appears to be Christian Moore’s job to lose, Kurt Suzuki has made it clear the position will be earned, and the organization believes competition will help his development.
On the 40 man roster the Angels have Oswald Peraza, Vaughn Grissom, and Kyren Paris. Peraza was acquired at the 2025 trade deadline, while Grissom was acquired this offseason in exchange for OF Isaiah Jackson. Both are out of minor league options, which strongly increases their chances of making the Opening Day roster unless they struggle badly in camp. The Angels are hoping a change of scenery and a new coaching staff can help both rediscover their former top prospect potential.
Paris still has an option remaining, though he impressed enough last spring to force his way onto the roster.
Among the non roster invitees are Nick Madrigal, Donovan Walton, and Yolmer Sánchez. The Angels also recently signed Chris Taylor and Adam Frazier to minor league deals. All bring major league experience, with Madrigal and Frazier possibly having the clearest path to a roster spot, though Taylor’s defensive versatility could make him very valuable. Regardless, second base projects to be one of the toughest battles of the spring.
Third Base
Yoán Moncada is expected to start at third base after signing a one year, $4 million contract. Injuries have impacted his career, but he arrived at camp reportedly 20 pounds lighter in hopes of staying healthy throughout the season.
Denzer Guzman and Oswald Peraza provide depth on the 40 man roster. Among non roster invitees, Jeimer Candelario, Nick Madrigal, and Yolmer Sánchez have experience at the position, while Chris Taylor and Adam Frazier offer additional versatility if needed.
Shortstop
Zach Neto has shortstop locked down and will be the Opening Day starter. Behind him, Guzman, Grissom, and Peraza could all serve as depth options.
Donovan Walton is the only true shortstop among the non roster invitees if injuries occur. Chris Taylor and Adam Frazier have played the position in the past but likely would only be emergency options.
Corner Outfield
The Angels have plenty of corner outfielders. The bigger question lies in center field.
Josh Lowe is expected to start in left field while Jo Adell handles right field duties. Mike Trout should see time in the corners as well, and Jorge Soler may also play the outfield when others need a day at designated hitter.
There will also be a battle for the fourth outfielder spot. Matthew Lugo is on the 40 man roster and impressed during his brief major league stint. Non roster invitees Gustavo Campero, Wade Meckler, Adam Frazier, and Chris Taylor will also compete. Campero has even been getting catching reps in camp.
Prospect Raudi Rodriguez is another name to watch, though he likely needs more minor league seasoning before earning a call up.
Center Field
Center field remains one of the biggest questions on the roster.
Mike Trout spoke to the media before the first full squad workout and, via Jeff Fletcher, said, “I just feel more comfortable out there. I feel like I’m at my best when I’m in center. But if I have to go to the corner, I’ll go to the corner.”
Trout appears willing to play a corner, but his voice carries weight within the organization and he could ultimately reclaim the position. The concern, however, is durability. Trout has not played more than 25 outfield games in either of the past two seasons, appearing in 22 games in right field in 2025 and 24 games in center field in 2024. The real question is whether he can handle a larger defensive workload in 2026.
From a roster construction standpoint, limiting Trout’s defensive innings may be the safer route. Bryce Teodosio significantly improved the team’s outfield defense after his call up last season and could factor heavily into the center field mix. His bat still needs development, but his glove is extremely valuable. Over a full season he has the defensive ability to compete for a Gold Glove and potentially even a Platinum Glove if given consistent playing time.
Josh Lowe expects to play all three outfield spots and will receive center field reps this spring. Jo Adell also has experience there, though his defense profiles much better in right field.
Among non roster invitees, Jose Siri provides strong defense in center but limited offensive production. Top prospect Nelson Rada is also in camp and, while unlikely to make the Opening Day roster, could see time in the majors later in the season.
Designated Hitter
The Angels essentially have two players who fit the designated hitter role in Jorge Soler and Mike Trout. Soler played more outfield than expected last season and dealt with back issues, which affected his production. Trout also spent significant time at DH in 2025 due to knee problems.
Trout has indicated he wants to return to the outfield more regularly, potentially even center field. Ultimately, the Angels’ priority should be keeping him healthy. The lineup looks dramatically different when Trout is available, regardless of where he plays defensively.
Closing
Spring Training has set up several compelling competitions. Second base, center field, and the fourth outfielder role remain unsettled, and strong performances over the next few weeks could reshape the roster.
With games about to begin and players fighting for opportunities, the evaluation period is officially underway. Over the next month, roles will be earned, surprises will happen, and the Opening Day roster will start to come to fruition. Baseball season is officially here and games are only five days away!
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