Angels Infielder's Injury Is More Serious Than Manager Thought

Los Angeles infield is still nursing a strained left quad.

Los Angeles Angels infielder Michael Stefanic was cleared to resume baseball activity a week ago after straining his left quad in a Cactus League game against the Dodgers, but he has not progressed as quickly.

“He’s not ready yet. He’s doing basic stuff. I didn’t realize his quad was that severe.”

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Ron Washington via O.C. Register

Stefanic is currently in the mix for a roster spot with the Angels, but his health could hinder his chances. 

Michael Stefanic (quad) is running outdoors and taking live BP today. So he’s making progress but no timetable. Robert Stephenson (shoulder) is throwing a bullpen today. He’s scheduled to throw another one this weekend.

— Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) March 6, 2024

Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com wrote that Stefanic was a "slight favorite for the final bench spot."

After hitting .290/.380/.355 in 25 games and showing improved defense last year, Stefanic came into camp as the slight favorite for the final bench spot. But he’s currently dealing with a left quad strain that complicates things. He played catch and took some swings on Wednesday, but has yet to progress to jogging or running.

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Rhett Bollinger via MLB.com

Stefanic impressed the Angels last season with a 62-game on-base streak in Triple-A Salt Lake. He fell 12 games shy of the minor league record, which coincidentally is held by former Angel Andrew Velazquez (who reached in 74 straight with Class A South Bend in 2014).

Non-roster invitees Ehire Adrianza, Miguel Sano and Hunter Dozier also vying for the backup infielder's position, along with returnees Kyren Paris and Livan Soto.