Angels GM Opens Up About Importance of Youth Development This Year

The Angels are focused on developing their young core.

There is no denying it. The Los Angeles Angels are going to be a much younger ball club this season.

As of now, Zach Neto is the starting shortstop, Nolan Schanuel is at first base and Logan O'Hoppe is behind the dish.

Then there is Mickey Moniak, who could earn a starting job in the outfield. Chase Silseth will most likely be in the starting rotation. Jo Adell is only 24 but has plenty of big league experience in the outfield.

Angels general manager Perry Minasian told Noah Camras of Halos Today that his team has some talented young players but, "with youth, you never know."

"You go through ups and downs. But that was a big reason we hired who we hired. And from a coaching standpoint, from a manager standpoint, the development of our young players is paramount for our success. Whether it’s Mickey Moniak, Jo Adell, Zach Neto, Nolan Schanuel, Logan O’Hoppe, Chase Silseth, you go on and on, I think that’s gonna be really, really important for our young players to develop.”

— Angels GM Perry Minasian

Manager Ron Washington already confirmed that Schanuel will lead off for the Angels to start the season. He has also sung O'Hoppe's praises. Their ability to develop at the big-league level will be key to the Angels having a successful season.

The young core is making a statement early in their big league careers. But how quickly can they adapt to being everyday players? 

Perhaps, it will all start to come together when the Angels open Cactus League play against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday.