The Los Angeles Angels have signed seasoned catcher Travis d’Arnaud to a two-year, $12 million deal, adding valuable experience to their roster as they look to enhance their depth. D’Arnaud, who spent the last few years with the Atlanta Braves, saw his club option for 2025 declined, leading him to explore free agency before finding a new home in Anaheim.
At 36, d’Arnaud brings both skill and veteran leadership to the Angels, likely assuming a backup role behind young catcher Logan O’Hoppe. In his time with Atlanta, he maintained solid production at the plate and earned respect for his defensive consistency, accumulating 60 home runs and a .251 batting average. The Angels hope his experience will complement O’Hoppe’s emerging talent.
Alongside the signing, the Angels announced the hiring of Sal Fasano, formerly with Atlanta as a catching coach, as an assistant pitching coach. Fasano’s addition bolsters the coaching staff as they look to develop a more cohesive pitching strategy.
In a corresponding move, right-hander Guillo Zuñiga has been designated for assignment. Zuñiga, known for his impressive velocity, will likely attract interest from other teams given his remaining option year.
With d’Arnaud in the mix, the Angels have solidified their catching depth, allowing flexibility in handling O’Hoppe’s workload throughout the season. The 25-year-old O’Hoppe, considered a key piece for the team’s future, will benefit from d’Arnaud’s mentorship both on and off the field. Meanwhile, Matt Thaiss, the other catcher on the Angels’ 40-man roster, faces an uncertain future with the team. The Angels’ management has indicated that they are considering various roles for Thaiss, which could include a potential trade or position change.
This signing also emphasizes the strong working relationship between Angels GM Perry Minasian and Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos, with both executives previously involved in deals that have strengthened their respective rosters. The recent addition of former Braves catching coach Fasano highlights the Angels’ confidence in adding Braves connections to enhance their player development and game strategies.
With this move, the Angels bring their projected payroll to $174 million, slightly above their starting payroll for 2024, as owner Arte Moreno has expressed commitment to bolstering the roster. The Angels’ next steps in free agency or trades could focus on further reinforcing pitching depth or exploring additional offensive upgrades as they look to make a serious playoff push in 2025.
