Angels claim catcher Kevan Smith off waivers from White Sox, DFA Joe Hudson

In the hubbub of the World Series, the Angels have hired their manager and now, they have claimed a player, too. That player is none other than Kevan Smith, a 30-year old catcher formerly of the Chicago White Sox.

In 52 games and 187 plate appearances with the White Sox, Smith showed an ability to make contact, translating this into a nice batting average. He slashed .292/.348/.380 with three home runs, good for a 104 wRC+.

Baseball Prospectus

Smith has historically rated as a below average defender, though his framing has improved the past two seasons, resulting in a neutral defensive production at the major-league level this year.

Smith is expected to undergo surgery for a sprained ankle this offseason.

Hudson, 27, has not had an extended opportunity to prove himself at the MLB level.

This adds a catcher with recent success to the roster, important since Briceño is still a developing player and Arcia’s future with the organization may be in question.