Vernon Wells looking for a good start with Los Angeles Angels – MLB News
Recently acquired from Toronto Blue Jays, Vernon Wells joined the workout session with the Los Angeles Angels on February 18, 2011. Wells is three-time Gold Glove winner and three-time All-Star.
His inclusion in the Angels will definitely give the team a tremendous boost, especially in the fielding department. It looks like Wells will be put in left-field even though he played in centre-field for the Blue Jays for nine seasons. However, Wells understands
that this is a new team and the other players that are in these positions are given priority.
Wells commented on possibly playing in left-field and said, "If I end up playing left. I want to be the best left fielder in the game. And I'll work hard to be that."
Angels’ manager Mike Scioscia is excited with the inclusion of Wells into the team, as the player brings enormous talent and skill into the squad. The manager is expecting great things from this tremendous player.
Scioscia said, "As athletic as Vernon is, we're excited putting those pieces together. Continuity in the outfield is going to come from Peter Bourjos' range in center if that works out, along with the guys on the wings."
Although Wells has never played in left-field, he is ready to accept the challenge and is optimistic that he will be able to perform well that position. The Angels seem to be trying something different as they look to put in a good performance during Spring
Training. The session allows the team to try different players in alternative fielding positions to evaluate the potential of some of the younger players.
The Angels are aware of the talent that Wells possesses, as he has the ability to adjust to any field position as he is new to the team and this will give him the opportunity to start in a fresh position. The team will be hoping that Wells is able to perform
in left-field as they are taking a slight risk putting a seasoned centre-fielder like Wells in a different fielding position.
Scioscia seems confident of Wells and his tremendous talents. This is the reason why the Angels signed him on with a four year $86 million contract. Wells had a very career with the Toronto Blue Jays as he had 26 homers, 95 RBIs, 39 doubles and a batting
average of .280. Wells has had seasons with 30 home-runs, 100 RBIs and 40 doubles. During the 2003 season, he was rated at the top of the American League in total bases, hits and doubles.
With the Angels, Wells will most likely bat at fourth or fifth position. It will be interesting to see what impact Wells will have on the Angels during the 2011 regular season.
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