The Angels consider themselves to be pretty deep behind the plate, and the Blue Jays are always interested in adding a little more offense. Thus, there was a match between the two ballclubs, and on Friday the former has agreed to trade catcher Mike Napoli to the latter.
Mike Napoli Traded By Angels As Blue Jays Acquire Power Bat
It’s unknown what the Angels will be getting in return, and all the players involved have to pass their physicals in order for this deal to become official. It should be just a matter of time.
For the Jays, Napoli could get work behind the plate, at first base, or as the designated hitter, potentially cutting into the playing time of Jose Molina, Adam Lind, and Edwin Encarnacion. For the Angels, catchers Jeff Mathis, Bobby Wilson, and Hank Conger made Napoli expendable. The team will continue to search for additions at DH or left field.
The 29-year-old Napoli has batted .258 over the past three seasons, with a .341 OBP and a .502 slugging percentage. The Angels were never fond of his work behind the plate, but he’s able to hold his own in the field, and more importantly, he’s a strong power bat with some time left in his prime. He’s eligible for arbitration this season and next, and is set to become a free agent after 2012.
For more on the deal, Check out Halos Heaven and Bluebird Banter.
See More:
