Ohtani-less Angels look to future as workouts start
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TEMPE, Ariz. — The
Nolan Schanuel debuted on Aug. 18 and hit .275 with one homer, six RBI and a .402 on-base percentage. He was the first player to reach the major leagues from last year’s draft, the 11th player picked overall, and hit leadoff in all 28 starts.
“Right now, he is our first baseman,” Washington said. “We have a lot of hope for him, I like his work ethic.”
Los Angeles is counting on youngsters like Schanuel, who turned 22 on Wednesday, and 23-year-old shortstop Zach Neto, the Angels’ first-round pick in 2022.
The Angels didn’t make any large offseason acquisitions, instead bringing in veterans such as Aaron Hicks, Miguel Sanó and Hunter Dozier.
Dozier, 32, is playing outside the Kansas City Royals’ organization for the first time. He expects to continue in a utility role with time at infield and outfield corners along with designated hitter.
“It’s good just to kind of get a new start,” Dozier said. “I’m ready for anything.”
One holdover from his Kansas City days is his uniform number — 17 — which just happens to be the number left behind by Ohtani. No other significance to it, he said.
“I was 17 with the Royals for six years,” Dozier said.
