The Angels wasted no time making offseason moves. Less than 24 hours after the final World Series pitch, the Los Angeles franchise traded starting pitcher Griffin Canning in exchange for outfielder and designated hitter Jorge Soler.

Soler, 32, played 11 seasons in the major leagues after making his debut on August 27, 2014. The Cuban outfielder played with the Chicago Cubs, Kansas City Royals, Atlanta Braves, Miami Marlins and the San Francisco Giants. This season, the The Giants traded Soler to the Braves at the deadline alongside right-handed pitcher Luke Jackson in exchange for left-handed pitcher Tyler Matzek and third baseman Sabin Ceballos.

During the National League Wild Card Series against the Padres, Soler cut .286/.375/.714 with a 1.089 OPS. He recorded two hits, one run, one home run and one RBI in seven at-bats. Soler made five postseason appearances, reaching at least the National League Championship Series in three out of five postseason appearances.

Soler provides versatility to the Angels as he made appearances at three different positions this past season. In 2024, he played 43 games in right field, three in left field and 92 games as a designated hitter. Soler expressed that he is open to whatever position the team needs him to play.

“I have no problem, wherever they put me,” Soler told The Sports Tribune. “I’m going to be ready wherever the team wants me to be.”

Soler is a two-time World Series champion, winning in 2016 with the Cubs and 2021 with the Braves. He was named Willie Mays World Series MVP following the 2021 victory. In 2023, Soler was selected to the National League All-Star team for the first time in his career.

“We identified Jorge as someone who would be a real fit. He’s a powerful right-hander, someone who can change the game with one swing of the stick,” Angels general manager Perry Minasian said. The Sports Tribune. “We felt like it was a really perfect fit for us and someone who could change our roster.”

If the Angels make Soler a designated hitter, his power will contribute significantly to the lineup, which finished 28th out of 30 MLB teams in slugging percentage this season. As an outfielder, Soler would join current Angels outfielders Mike Trout, Jo Adell, Taylor Ward and Mickey Moniak.

The addition of Soler is a big early win for the Angels this offseason.