MLB Rumors: New Team Emerging In Pursuit Of Anthony Santander

The Los Angeles Angels have emerged as a strong contender in the pursuit of free-agent outfielder Anthony Santander, joining the Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Tigers as frontrunners for the slugger’s services. 

Coming off a career-best season with 44 home runs and 102 RBIs for the Baltimore Orioles, Santander is viewed as one of the top options available this offseason. 

According to Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press, the Angels see Santander as a key addition to bolster their lineup after finishing last in the AL West. This interest adds to a busy offseason for the team, which has already signed Jorge Soler, Kyle Hendricks, and Travis d’Arnaud.

Anthony Santander has a .795 OPS/124 wRC+ the last three seasons, power over OBP. Defense isn’t great, but passable in a corner.

Big issue is he rejected the QO, so the Angels would have to forfeit their 2nd round pick (~47 overall) and $500k international bonus pool.

— BTH (@BeyondTheHalo) December 30, 2024

Adding Santander would address a critical need for the Angels, who are seeking a consistent middle-of-the-order bat to complement right-handed stars like Mike Trout and Taylor Ward. 

Santander’s ability to hit from both sides of the plate would bring balance and versatility, while his power and production would solidify the lineup. 

If signed, he is expected to take over right field, potentially allowing Trout to shift to left to manage his workload. The move could also prompt trades involving Jo Adell or Mickey Moniak, as the Angels aim to optimize their roster for a playoff push. 

Santander, 30, is reportedly seeking a four-to-five-year deal, and his signing would require the Angels to forfeit a draft pick and international bonus pool money after he rejected Baltimore’s qualifying offer.

The Angels forfeiting the No. 45 pick to sign Anthony Santander would be an interesting decision - even for a team that’s struggled with player development. Angels remain one of the most confusing organizations. https://t.co/umoiNm1nLA

— Brandon Wile (@Brandon_N_Wile) December 30, 2024

The Angels face strong competition from the Blue Jays, who view Santander as a solution to their offensive needs after missing out on Juan Soto and Teoscar Hernández, and the Tigers, who see him as an alternative to Alex Bregman. 

As Petzold notes, “Santander’s bat and versatility could elevate the Angels’ roster,” positioning them as a serious contender in a competitive market.

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images