Where does the youth movement play in 2012?

AAA, not just for Lucha Libre anymore. I think the Angels would actually benefit quite a bit if they put a few of the up and comers in the Minors to start the season.  Probably not a popular thought. Especially considering that I want to see the young guys come up, succeed, and make an impact.  Without a serious trade, there is just not enough At Bats to accommodate the Halo Depth.  A quick look at the assumed starting positions in 2012 and you lose a few guys who made 2011 special.  There are quite a few log jams on the diamond and only a few pieces that have the options to spend some time in Salt Lake City.

Obviously the first candidate is one of the Top Prospects in all of Baseball.  However a huge obstacle was placed in front of him when the trade for Vernon Wells was made.  Mike Trout just doesn’t have the room to get regular at bats to start the season. Borjous was ready first and has a very positive impact in the center field.  Torii Hunter until December 8th 2011 has been the face of this franchise since he was signed to a contract at an undisclosed Del Taco location.  This is his final contract year with the Angels and unfortunately just good enough to stay in the line up, everyday.  And of course Vernon Wells, I doubt anyone could have predicted how poorly he would have been in Anaheim last year.  However as many GIDP or pop flys, he still pulled off a very respectable 25 dingers, plus he's owed way to much money to sit on the bench.  An Injury or trade could change that very quickly, but I think the right idea is to let Trout see pitches every day. When an opportunity presents itself at the Major League Level he can be plugged right into any outfield position and carry the load.  Hunter and Abreu are both free agents in 2013.

Mark Trumbo is the other man who should probably start the season in AAA. We have a very decent to good third baseman in Alberto Callaspo and clearly won't get starts over Albert Pujols. Which means… if Morales is healthy, there won’t be many at bats between Kendrys and Bobby Abreu. Besides, do you really want Trumbo learning on the job at the Major League Level. Better to have him develop the defense of skills, whilst it doesn’t affect the major league wins and losses.  In the interim, first base will be dominated by AP with the occasional start lobbed to Morales or even Jorge Cantu can be brought up from his minor league deal.  If the Angels are committed to making Trumbo a serviceable everyday Third baseman, repetition and opportunity will take him there.  Otherwise, trade him now while his value is high, because there isn't enough room in the outfield or playing first.  

Lastly Hank Conger. I know blasphemy, right, Conger is one of my favorites.  He seems like a real cool guy, plus gave me an autographed bat.  (Well full disclosure gave my friend an autographed bat, who gave it to me, but clearly the intent was there.)  But if Conger starts the year in AAA, he’ll see regular at bats. Ianneta so far is on a one year contract. No telling if he’ll be extended. No telling how he’ll interact with the Major League Pitching, no telling if he’s truly a fit. And with Wilson out of options and being Santana’s personal catcher, it doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere. If at any point in the season. No reason to let Conger sit on the bench. Let him play ever day in AAA and wait for a call up.

There is a lot of reason to be excited about 2012 for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.  Clearly there are some tough decisions ahead for DiPoto and Scioscia.  But ultimately the youth movement might have to wait one more year before they're allowed to take the next level of this ball club.

Go Halos...

& Bees!!!