The Los Angeles Angels' release of former No. 1 overall pick Mickey Moniak marks a significant turn in his career. After a promising 2023 season with a .280 batting average and .802 OPS, Moniak struggled in 2024, managing only a .219 average over 124 games. Despite expectations for him to share center field duties with Jo Adell, his poor performance in spring training, where he hit just .173 with 18 strikeouts, ultimately sealed his fate.

This decision opens the door for rising prospect Matthew Lugo, who now has a chance to make the opening day roster as the Angels look to break a postseason drought that dates back to 2014. The Angels begin their 2025 season on the road against the Chicago White Sox, hoping to make a significant impact this year.