LA Angels DFA Recent All-Star Amidst Frightening Health Issues

It's a sad end to the Los Angeles Angels career of a recent All-Star, and a tragic tale of frightening and confounding physical issues. The Angels, in the midst of a playoff push, have designated for assignment first baseman Jared Walsh.

Two years ago, Jared Walsh was an All-Star and one of the best young first baseman in the AL.

His career was sidetracked by thoracic outlet syndrome and debilitating neurological symptoms.

Today, he was DFA’d. https://t.co/zBhm1prWH1

— Kyle Glaser (@KyleAGlaser) July 27, 2023

It was only two years ago, 2021, that Walsh broke through big-time in the majors with a 29 HR season, with a .509 slugging and .850 OPS, earning a trip to the All-Star game as one of the game's rising first base prospects. 

But Walsh was sidelined in 2022 by surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome, and this season has only played 28 games due to debilitating neurological symptoms which have included persistent headaches, tremors, insomnia and depth perception issues that would have him walking into walls. 

“It’s been hell, to be completely honest with you,” Walsh said. “It’s been hell. Not knowing what’s going on. Not understanding what’s happening with my body. Being in the prime of my life. The prime of my career. And not being able to get answers, not being able to figure out why I can’t do basic tasks. It’s been pretty concerning for me.”

Walsh will get the remainder of his $2.65M salary for this season, but then face an uncertain future, both health-wise, and now without a job. 

He turns 30 in three days. 

Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports