Angels finalize deal with Luis Valbuena

It took a five days to iron out the details, but Valbuena and the Angels have come to an agreement on a multi-year deal. Valbuena still has to clear his physical, but at least we aren’t getting him from the Padres. Too soon?

According to Jeff Fletcher, Valbuena will get 6.5 million in 2017, 8 million in 2018, and the Angels will have a first decision on exercising his 2019 option which would be worth 8.5 million (or else a 500K buyout).

It’s not a lot of money and seems to be consistent with the short term, low value contracts the Angels have been targeting as of late. Still, it IS a good chunk of cash for someone who’s likely just a utility guy who will not play every day. Most likely, Eppler sees him as filling the role that will be left by Escobar in 2018 (or sooner if he ends up a trade target).

Aside from the utility role, Valbuena could see some extra playing time in April if Pujols is not yet ready to come back from his foot surgery.