Meet Ryan LaMarre, Angels new 4th outfielder

Who is Ryan LaMarre? Well, if you were paying attention last July 2nd during the game when the Angels trounced the Red Sox 21-2, you probably saw him pitch the 9th inning and throw a 78 MPH fastball. LaMarre gave up a lead-off double to C.J. Cron, got Johnny G and Carlos Perez out, gave up a single to Andrelton Simmons, and ended the inning with Gregorio Petit and no runs allowed. Yep. His major league ERA is 0.00.

Maybe he’s also Billy Eppler’s secret bullpen option. Speaking of Gregorio Petit, he was DFA’d to make room for LaMarre on the 40-man roster.

In his very limited MLB experience, LaMarre is just 2 for 30 with a walk and 3 runs scored. Apparently every time this dude gets on base - he scores. Nice find Eppler! Seriously though, LaMarre is a guy who is good at getting on base (.344 career OBP in the minors), and he swiped 17 bases in 358 plate appearances last year so he can run a bit as well.

If his minor league performance can translate, Eppler signed a guy with a good arm who can hit with some power, draw walks and be a threat on the bases. He struck out 11 times in 32 big league trips to the plate, but his career minor league K rate is 20% which is just okay. Eppler must have some faith that he’s ready for The Show since this was a major league contract signing.

Scouting Report: Speedy outfielder capable of playing a strong center field. Willing to take walks at the plate, but also strikes out a fair amount and hits for limited power. Limited effectiveness stealing bases despite his plus speed.

The Red signed LaMarre in the second round of the 2010 draft. He was the Reds #11 prospect in 2010 and had dropped to #21 for the 2012 season before falling off the top prospect list.

Last year for AAA Pawtucket, LaMarre hit .303/.369/.445 with 10 HR, 17 SB in 317 at bats.