The Los Angeles Angels have acquired infielder Oswald Peraza from the New York Yankees in exchange for rookie-level outfielder Wilberson De Pena and international bonus pool money. This move comes as the Angels chose not to sell at the trade deadline, despite speculation that several of their veterans headed for free agency could be traded.
The team remains four games behind the final American League Wild Card spot after winning three out of four games leading up to the deadline. As a result, players such as closer Kenley Jansen, left-hander Tyler Anderson, right-hander Kyle Hendricks, and infielders Luis Rengifo and Yoán Moncada were not moved. Outfielder Taylor Ward also stayed with the team.
General manager Perry Minasian commented on the decision: “Looking at the club and where we currently are, and obviously we’re very competitive, we wanted to keep this group,” Minasian said. “It’s a really good mix. It’s the best clubhouse I’ve had in the last five years I’ve been here. The players would tell you the same thing. And the development of our core is obviously very, very, very important going forward.”
Peraza will join an infield that already includes Zach Neto, Rengifo, and Moncada. The Angels’ top prospect Christian Moore is also nearing a return from injury after starting a rehab assignment. To make room for Peraza on the roster, infielder Kevin Newman was designated for assignment.
Minasian emphasized how important it is for this group to compete late into the season: “Being competitive in August and September is really, really important for this group, not only for the now, but for the future, playing meaningful games,” he said. “It’s hard to quantify, but I felt like it was very, very important for this group to go through that. It’s only going to benefit them.”
Peraza has played 145 Major League games over parts of four seasons but has struggled offensively with a .190 batting average and .263 on-base percentage during his career so far. In 71 games this year he hit .152 with three home runs and three stolen bases. However, his defensive skills remain highly regarded; he can play third base, shortstop and second base effectively and ranks in the 92nd percentile in sprint speed.
“He’s a classic change-of-scenery guy,” Minasian said about Peraza. “He’s not performed well from the offensive standpoint at the Major League level. But defensively, it’s a very intriguing player. Historically, from a Minor League standpoint, he’s performed offensively, can play different positions, can really defend at third base, can also play short and second. We felt like it was an outstanding opportunity to take a chance on a guy that has talent.”
Peraza remains under team control through 2029 but does not have any minor league options left.
With Moore expected back soon from injury rehabilitation—he began his assignment Wednesday—Scott Kingery may be optioned as he has yet to appear since being called up Saturday.
Peraza is expected to join his new club ahead of Friday’s series against Chicago.
