A pivotal season awaits Los Angeles Angels outfielder Jo Adell in the 2024 MLB season. After struggling during Spring Training, Adell still earned a spot on the big-league roster. However, he’ll need to prove himself down the stretch for the Halos.
Jo Adell is Big and Physical
Once ranked as the Angels’ No. 1 prospect and MLB Pipeline’s No. 6 prospect in baseball, Adell has struggled to put it all together.
Initial scouting reports on Adell praised his large frame, physicality, and ability to drive the ball to all fields. His speed was also seen as an asset on the basepaths and in the outfield. He was considered a five-tool threat with an above-average arm. He also showed the potential to be a run producer with his power.
What’s Gone Wrong for Jo Adell?
Adell has struggled to make consistent contact with big-league pitching, which has led to a career batting average of .213. He has not been patient at the plate and often falls behind in the count. Too often, he forces unnecessary swings, and that just leads to more strikeouts. In fact, he has struck out in almost 40 percent of his at-bats. For context, the MLB average is just under 23 percent.
I’m out on Jo Adell.
Yeah, the season barely started. But whatever.
He looks so lost. I just can’t expect anything from him anymore because he keeps on disappointing.
— Angels Tweeter (@LAATweeter) March 28, 2024
Injuries
Adell has suffered several injuries during his brief career. Those include ankle and hamstring issues, as well as an oblique injury that first occurred in 2021. And, last year, he injured the oblique again, causing him to miss time. During Spring Training, he mentioned he has a better routine now which should help prevent a repeat of the injury.
Talent is There for Jo Adell
No one has ever questioned Adell’s talent. He just needs to find consistency. His positive attitude has always been there. Now it’s about learning to turn his positive attitude into success on the baseball field and to tap into his other tools as he tries to live up to his potential.
Angels’ New Manager
The Angels have yet another new skipper in Ron Washington, who hasn’t managed a team since 2014. Washington spent the past seven seasons on the Atlanta Braves‘ coaching staff. Players and fans love his comedic musings and old-school techniques. He also works well with younger players and has always maintained open and honest communication.
Change in Batting Stance
Angels hitting coach Johnny Washington (no relation to the manager) worked all Spring Training with Adell, making a few mechanical tweaks with his swing and his mentality on approaching pitches. Washington and Adell worked on his footwork at the plate and how to use the whole field when hitting. We will see whether these changes can have a lasting impact.
Straight passion for this team and wants to continue to be a better hitter
Jo Adell continues to show he's ready to be apart of this team #RepTheHalo pic.twitter.com/5RSUBF7OVp
— Welcome to the Jo Show (@JoShowAdell) April 3, 2024
Crowded Outfield
The Angels have a crowded outfield to start the season. Along with Adell, they have Aaron Hicks, Mickey Moniak, Mike Trout, and Taylor Ward. Even utility infielder Luis Rengifo can play some games in the outfield.
Hicks will be an everyday outfielder, as will future Hall of Famer Mike Trout. That leaves only one spot as Adell, Moniak, and Ward compete for playing time.
Jo Adell is Out of Options
Adell is out of minor league options. If designated for assignment, he would be removed from the 40-man roster and subject to outright waivers. Any team could claim him, and given his potential, several teams would be willing to give Adell, who turns 25 on April 8, a chance to get his career back on track with a change of scenery.
Last Chance
In what could be his last chance with the Angels, Adell needs to find his stride at last. He must start the season well and show he can be an MLB player. If he struggles early, the front office will have to make a decision on his future.
So far this year, Adell is 2-for-9 (.222) with two walks, two RBI, two stolen bases, and three runs.
Adell still has upside and can help the Angels. They hope the managerial change and new coaching staff will help him find and hone his true talent. If they can get him to be the player that made him a top prospect back in 2020, the Angels will have a solid young player to take them into the future.
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