Thu Mar 27 22:20:00 UTC 2025: **Angels Sign Infielder Nicky Lopez, Release Pitchers Perdomo and Quijada**
ANAHEIM, CA – The Los Angeles Angels have signed infielder Nicky Lopez to a major league deal, the team announced late Sunday. The move comes as the Angels deal with several injuries in their infield and uncertainty around their starting lineup. The signing of Lopez, 30, a known glove-first player, suggests that the team is prioritizing defensive stability while key players recover from injuries.
Lopez, recently released by the Chicago Cubs, boasts extensive major league experience but has a career batting average of .248. His strong defensive skills, however, have been noted throughout his career, particularly at shortstop. He’ll provide depth while shortstop Zach Neto recovers from shoulder surgery and third baseman Anthony Rendon recovers from hip surgery. Second baseman Luis Rengifo is also dealing with a hamstring injury.
To make room for Lopez on the 40-man roster, the Angels appear to have released left-handed pitchers José Quijada and Angel Perdomo. Both pitchers were reportedly absent from the clubhouse on Sunday. Quijada, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2023, and Perdomo, recently acquired from the Atlanta Braves, are both out of options, meaning they must be on the active roster or released. Neither transaction has been officially confirmed by the team.
The Angels’ infield situation remains fluid. Kevin Newman is expected to start at shortstop in Neto’s absence, with Rengifo and newly acquired Yoán Moncada (currently dealing with thumb soreness) filling other positions. The addition of Lopez adds further depth to a position group struggling with injuries. The Angels’ decisions regarding other non-roster invitees like Tim Anderson and J.D. Davis remain to be seen.
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