Tim Anderson DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Tim Anderson saw his first outfield action of the spring on Wednesday after he started at center field for the Halos in their 5-3 Cactus League loss to the Dodgers. Manager Ron Washington indicated earlier this spring that Anderson would see some time in the outfield despite not having logged any time there in his entire career dating back to 2016. The added flexibility would increase his odds of securing a roster spot and the positional versatility would enhance whatever fantasy appeal he has left. The 31-year-old has seen his batting average drop in five consecutive seasons since peaking at .335 in 2019, while his strikeout rate last season was the worst of his career at 28.2 percent. The veteran went 1-for-3 in Wednesday's game with his first stolen base of the spring, and he also scored a run. The 2x All-Star is likely only worth a look in AL-only formats at this point, though.

Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington said that the team is planning to try shortstop Tim Anderson in the outfield later in spring training. With Zach Neto (shoulder) a candidate to open the 2025 season on the injured after having right-shoulder surgery last November, Anderson could open the year as the Angels' primary shortstop, although he'll have competition from the likes of Luis Rengifo, Scott Kingery and Kyren Paris. The 31-year-old will increase his odds of making the Opening Day roster, though, if he impresses the coaches with his work in the outfield this spring. Anderson has never played the outfield in his MLB career and will be a long shot to see much time out there, if at all, in 2025. Offensively, the former first-rounder has fallen off a cliff the last two years after being an All-Star in both 2021 and 2022 with the Chicago White Sox. He's only worth a bench spot in AL-only leagues.

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Tim Anderson could have a shot to be the team's Opening Day shortstop in 2025 with Zach Neto (shoulder) expected to open the season on the injured list after having right-shoulder surgery last November. Anderson is on a minor-league deal, though, and will have to earn his spot on the roster while competing with the likes of Kevin Newman, Scott Kingery and Kyren Paris. Luis Rengifo could also be an option for the 6 while Neto is out early on. Anderson was a former batting champion with the Chicago White Sox in 2019 and was also named to two All-Star teams. However, his production has fallen off a cliff the last two years (.235/.271/.274 with a .544 OPS), leading to his release with the Miami Marlins in 2024. The 31-year-old is really going to have to turn things around to avoid being just an infield bench option in 2025.