The Angels seem to be scooping up all the veterans this offseason, trading for Jorge Soler and signing Travis d’Arnaud and now Newman. The 31-year-old hit .278 in 288 at-bats in 2024 with three home runs, 28 RBI, and eight steals. However, the veteran’s real value will come with his elite defense across the infield, which has led him to be a positive-WAR player over his career. He will likely fill a utility role off the bench for the Angels.

The New York Post’s Jon Heyman says it will be for one year and include a club option. Newman is coming off a nice season as a utilityman for the Diamondbacks, having hit .278/.311/.375 in 311 plate appearances. He could open up as the Angels’ starting shortstop if Zach Neto requires an IL stint after shoulder surgery. He’ll also likely help out at third base after Anthony Rendon gets hurt.

This makes two-of-three appearances for Newman where he’s picked up three hits, and it’s helped his average bump up to .272 from the .253 mark he carried prior. The infielder is capable of slashing the baseball around, but he just doesn’t do enough in other categories — and it’s not like he’s close the league-leaders in average — to justify a fantasy spot.