Anderson has been better than expected defensively, but there’s been little sign of an offensive renaissance here. The good news is that the Angels should have Zach Neto back in 7-10 days, and with Kyren Paris establishing himself at second, Anderson figures to become a true bench guy later this month. Nicky Lopez is probably going to find himself out of work at that time.

Anderson won a spot on the Opening Day roster after hitting .250/.297/.317 with one home run and three steals. With Zach Neto (shoulder) starting the year on the IL, Kevin Newman will be the starting shortstop with Anderson filling in at second base. The Angels’ full lineup is: Taylor Ward, LF, Nolan Schanuel 1B, Mike Trout RF, Jorge Soler DH, Tim Anderson 2B, Luis Rengifo 3B, Logan O’Hoppe C, Jo Adell CF, Kevin Newman SS.

Anderson will be the Angels’ second baseman on Opening Day, even though he’s been arguably the worst player in the majors since mid-2022 and didn’t really do anything this spring to suggest that he’s better now. With the hitless game tonight, he finishes up hitting .250/.297/.317 in 64 plate appearances.

Anderson has officially made Los Angeles’ season-opening roster and will be the club’s starting shortstop while Zach Neto (shoulder) is sidelined. It’s an open question whether the 31-year-old former All-Star has anything left in the tank, but the Angels are going to give him a couple weeks to prove it. There’s some fantasy appeal here in AL-only leagues as a cheap speed source, but we’re not anticipating a significant impact.