Los Angeles Angels manager Phil Nevin concerned with Luis Rengifo's lack of play for Team Venezuela: "I think he should be out there"
The Los Angeles Angels have a couple of guys playing in the World Baseball Classic. Mike Trout is playing for Team USA, while Shohei Ohtani is playing for Samurai Japan. The Angels also have their utility man, Luis Rengifo, playing for Team Venezuela.
While Trout and Ohtani have been mainstays in their lineups, Rengifo has not. He only has five at-bats in the tournament, which concerns Angels manager Phil Nevin.
"I know it's part of it," Nevin said. "They're trying to win games. I'm a little partial. I think he should be out there."
Phil Nevin said he's concerned about Luis Rengifo's lack of play in the WBC (with regard to his preparation for the regular season). He has just 5 at-bats.
"I know that's part of it. They're trying to win games. I'm a little partial. I think he should be out there."
Rengifo is a complete utility guy with experience playing both corner outfield positions, shortstop, second and third base.
Last season with the Los Angeles Angels, he hit .264/.294/.429 with 17 home runs. Nevin wants to see his players get some work in. He doesn't want Rengifo to show back up at camp sluggish because he didn't get a lot of opportunities.
It's tough for Rengifo to get frequent playing time with how stacked this Team Venezuelan roster is. Jose Altuve blocked Renfrigo at second base while leading off for the team. Eduardo Escobar has taken the grunt of the plays at third base, and Andres Gimenez has been the team's main shortstop.
: FS2 and the FOX Sports AppWe are tied! Andres Gimenez drives in Acuña to even the score for Venezuela
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Aside from Samurai Japan, Team Venezuela is the only undefeated team in the tournament. It will likely stick with the same roster for the rest of the tournament, barring any sort of injuries.
The 2023 season will be important for the Los Angeles Angels
No team has been quite as disappointing as the Los Angeles Angels have been in recent years. It amazes fans that this team has two of the best players on the planet and still can't reach the postseason. Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani need to be regulars in the playoffs. Trout has made just one playoff appearance, while Ohtani has made none.
It may be a make-or-break year, as Ohtani is on a one-year deal. His contract expires after the season is over. Many believe Ohtani will leave in the offseason if the Angels don't turn it around this season.
Losing Ohtani would be devastating for the Los Angeles Angels. Perhaps, with a healthy Anthony Rendon, the team can turn it around and compete in the division. The baseball world needs to see Ohtani and Trout playing meaningful October baseball games.