With the Angels' pursuit of Kazuma Okamoto seemingly over, it's time to take a look at how their lineup might look if Opening Day were tomorrow. While the team still has some top free agents and trade candidates in the mix, let's explore the potential starting lineup and the players who could fill out the roster. But here's where it gets controversial...
SS Zach Neto
Zach Neto is the clear choice to lead off. His combination of power, contact, and speed makes him a perfect leadoff hitter and the catalyst for this team. With his official title as Mr. Halo, getting him as many at-bats as possible is a top priority for the Angels' new manager, Kurt Suzuki.
LF Jo Adell
Some might argue that Jo Adell should bat second in 2026. His numbers in 2025 were nearly identical to Mike Trout's, and giving him the protection of Trout in the third slot will force pitchers to stay in the strike zone. This move could be the key to earning his first All-Star appearance.
RF Mike Trout
Mike Trout, despite a leg injury in 2025, remains an elite bat. He should be in the third slot, where his patience at the plate will fit perfectly. The hope is that he can stay healthy enough to man right field and begin his quest for playoff glory and home run number 500.
DH Jorge Soler
Despite being overpaid, Jorge Soler will likely be the starting designated hitter. He is coming off one of the worst seasons of his career and could be traded, but for now, he'll be hitting cleanup and hoping for a revival.
C Logan O'Hoppe
After a disappointing 2025 season, Logan O'Hoppe is expected to reclaim his status as one of the better young catchers. With a new coaching staff and the Angels' clear support, he could be a key player in replacing the production lost from the Taylor Ward trade.
1B Nolan Schanuel
Nolan Schanuel, an above-average hitter in 2025, is a perfectly adept first baseman. His contact skills are elite, and he rarely strikes out. If he can add a little more power, he could be primed for a huge 2026 season.
2B Christian Moore
While the Angels could look to upgrade this position, Christian Moore would be the current choice. He had some flashes in 2025, but needs more consistency. With a little more refinement, he could be the long-term double play partner for Neto.
3B Kyren Paris
Kyren Paris had a rollercoaster 2025 season, but if he can find a healthy middle ground at the plate, he'll be a welcome addition. His athleticism allows him to move easily around the diamond, and the bat just needs to find a sustained rhythm.
CF Nelson Rada
While Bryce Teodosio is the more MLB-ready option, the Angels may opt for Nelson Rada in center field. His defense is comparable to Teodosio's, and his offensive game has been exceptional throughout his minor league career. After a strong finish to 2025 in Triple-A, Rada is likely to get an invite to Spring Training and could outperform Teodosio by Opening Day.
