(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Angels outfielder Randal Grichuk went 3-for-4 with four runs scored in a loss to the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday.
It wasn’t a regular game for him, though.
He put on his uniform and took the field knowing that he will have to change organizations for the second time this season.
The Angels, before the game started, put Grichuk and four other players (Lucas Giolito, Matt Moore, Reynaldo Lopez, and Hunter Renfroe) on waivers in an attempt to save some money, knowing that they aren’t going anywhere this year.
These moves can’t report the Angels any new players or prospects because they can’t be traded at this point, but since claiming teams would have to cover the remaining salaries, it could mean some salary relief.
So why was Grichuk able to play even though he was placed on waivers?
Because other organizations have until Thursday to place their claims.
Grichuk, 32, is likely going to a contender that needs a reliable bat.
He made sure to make a good case for a claim with his Tuesday performance, as he smacked not one, not two, but three extra-base hits as MLB on FOX tweeted.
Randal Grichuk was placed on waivers before tonight’s game.
He has two doubles and a HR.
(via @BallySportWest) pic.twitter.com/K7LDJbvJhE
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) August 30, 2023
He is not a middle-of-the-order stalwart but has proven throughout his career that he is a dangerous hitter.
This year, he has a .267/.322/.454 line with 23 doubles and 12 home runs in 367 plate appearances.
He also has a solid .776 OPS.
MLB teams are surely busy putting their claims on the players the Angels just discarded, as there is a lot of talent in that group.
It will be yet another year without Shohei Ohtani in the playoffs, and that’s a shame.
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