Angels News: Zach Neto Not Taking Any Chances As He Returns From Injury

Hopefully, he can remain healthy when he does finally return.

Lost in all the drama that has surrounded the Los Angeles Angels this season has been the stellar play from rookie shortstop Zach Neto. The infielder has dealt with different injuries throughout the year, but he has also been one of their more valuable members when on the field.

He has been out dealing with a back issue for the last month, and he doesn’t want to push himself to get back. Neto wants to actually let the injury heal so that it doesn’t linger down the line.

“Before I thought it was something I could push through, with the adrenaline kicking in,” Neto said. “It wasn’t getting better so I took this time to actually get better for real this time.”

Per The OC Register

Especially with where the Angels are in the standings, it doesn’t make a ton of sense to rush him back. He is likely going to be a major part of the future of this organization, so getting him right is crucial.

He completed his rehab assignment on Saturday and returns to the Halos' lineup on Sunday.

#Angels transactions:
•RHP Ben Joyce and INF Zach Neto returned from rehab assignments and reinstated from injured list
•Following last night’s game, INF Trey Cabbage and LHP Kolton Ingram were optioned to Triple-A Salt Lake

— Angels PR (@LAAngelsPR) September 10, 2023

On the year, the rookie is hitting .241 with eight home runs and 30 runs batted in. Prior to his injury, he was a big contributor to the Angels success, so his missed time has hurt the club this season.

The hope is that he can return for the final few weeks of the season and line himself up for a positive offseason.

[Editor’s note: This story has been updated from an original version.]