Andrew Velazquez, a Bronx native, made a remarkable entry into the major leagues with the Yankees in 2021, quickly endearing himself to fans with his energetic defense and spirited bat during Gleyber Torres’s injury stint.
Despite being labeled as a light hitter, Velazquez managed to contribute important hits, including his first career home run, and played a role in igniting a 13-game winning streak. However, his performance waned, with only three hits in his last 19 at-bats, leaving him with a .223 average.
The Los Angeles Angels, drawn to Velazquez’s high energy, hoped he would develop into a consistent major-league hitter and acquired him after his release by the Yankees. Over 100 starts with the Angels, he delivered impressive defensive plays but struggled offensively, hitting nine home runs but finishing with a .196/.236/.304 line and a 34.1% strikeout rate in 349 plate appearances.
To bolster their infield depth, the Angels signed former Yankees infielder Brandon Drury and traded for Gio Urshela from the Minnesota Twins. This additional depth led to Velazquez being demoted to Triple-A Salt Lake on Friday.
Urshela, known for his strong defensive performance at third base with the Yankees before his trade to the Twins, is anticipated to start the season as a utility infielder. He may also take some of Luis Rengifo’s playing time at shortstop if his hitting performance warrants it.
Angels manager Phil Nevin, a former Yankees bench coach, mentioned that Urshela might play shortstop “once or twice a week” and potentially more based on his performance.