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Angels Exploring Deals, Could Move Maicer Izturis

Dec 9, 2009 – 12:15 AM
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Ed Price

Ed Price %BloggerTitle%

INDIANAPOLIS -- With needs for a corner outfielder and in relief, the Angels are using their infield excess as trade chips.

The Angels have told people there is a significant chance they move an infielder, likely Maicer Izturis. Brandon Wood -- set to take over at third base -- and Erick Aybar are considered untouchable, a major-league source said. But Izturis is most likely to be traded, with Howie Kendrick more of a longshot to be moved.

Los Angeles finished the 2009 season with Chone Figgins at third, Aybar at shortstop, Izturis occasionally spelling Aybar there and Kendrick and Izturis sharing time at second base.

So moving Izturis, a switch-hitter who is eligible for free agency a year from now, would still leave the Angels with an infield of Wood, Aybar and Kendrick. And it would explain their reported interest in utility players such as Jamey Carroll.

Izturis, 29, started 64 games at second in 2009, 25 at shortstop and two at third base. He set career highs in average (.300), runs (74), hits (116), home runs (eight) and RBI (65). He has a .278 career average, including a .327 mark with runners in scoring position.
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