Angels give Christian Moore a day to work on adjustments
Published · Updated
Cited: Orange County Register, CBS Sports, CBS Sports
TL;DR
Angels rookie Christian Moore got a work day to fix his swing after snapping an 0-for-21 slump, while Moisés Ballesteros continues to rake in September and George Klassen is shut down for the season.
Why now
Moore's ongoing struggles at the plate have reached a critical point, prompting a dedicated adjustment day, while Ballesteros' hot streak and Klassen's shutdown are key storylines as the Angels evaluate their roster for 2027.
Agree / conflict
Some fans may argue Moore needs more consistent playing time to develop, while others believe a structured work day is the right approach to fix his swing mechanics.
Takeaway
The Angels are prioritizing development over immediate results for Moore, and Ballesteros' emergence offers hope for the future, but Klassen's shutdown underscores the team's cautious approach with young arms.
The Los Angeles Angels gave rookie second baseman Christian Moore a day off on Saturday, September 19, 2026, not as a benching but as a dedicated "work day" to refine his swing adjustments with the hitting coaches. 459 OPS in 118 plate appearances. Manager Kurt Suzuki emphasized that the focus is on controlling the strike zone, a key area where Moore has expanded too often, leading to a 33% strikeout rate.
Meanwhile, Moisés Ballesteros has emerged as a bright spot. 410 OPS in his first 24 games—the 22-year-old catcher has turned things around dramatically in September. Suzuki attributed the turnaround to Ballesteros settling in and reducing his chase rate on offspeed and breaking pitches.
On the pitching side, right-hander George Klassen is shut down for the season due to a back injury. 01 ERA in four August starts. The Angels are prioritizing his long-term health over a few meaningless late-season innings.
FAQ
Why did Christian Moore sit out on Saturday?
Moore was given a 'work day' to focus on swing adjustments with the hitting coaches, not because of injury or poor performance alone. He had just snapped an 0-for-21 slump.
What is Moore's batting average this season?
Moore is hitting .165 with a .459 OPS in 118 plate appearances, with a 33% strikeout rate.
How has Moisés Ballesteros performed since joining the Angels?
Ballesteros struggled early (.163 average in first 24 games) but has surged in September, hitting .357 with a 1.003 OPS since Sept. 1.
Is George Klassen pitching again this season?
No, Klassen is shut down for the season due to a back injury. He finishes with a 3.67 ERA in six starts.
Who won the Angels' team awards for 2026?
Mike Trout was voted team MVP for the 10th time, and Walbert Ureña won the Nick Adenhart Pitcher of the Year award.
Sources
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