The Angels signed veteran outfielder Aaron Hicks to a one-year deal in an effort to strengthen their depth. After being released by New York last May, Hicks, 33, provides the Angels with a switch-hitter who can play all outfield positions in which he performed excellently for the Orioles in the final weeks of the season. Hicks now gets the opportunity to play near his hometown, Long Beach, California, and is eager to play under new manager Ron Washington.

For the Angels, and Jo Adell in particular, it does, however, make things considerably more exciting in the outfield. Since Adell has no Minor League options left, he is a wild card among Superstars Mike Trout, Taylor Ward, and Mickey Moniak, who should all see lots of playing time. Adell will be placed on waivers and most likely lost to another team through a trade or waiver claim if he is not added to the Opening Day roster.

The 24-year-old Adell was a top prospect and a first-round selection in the 2017 MLB Draft, but in 178 games over the previous four seasons, he has only hit .214/.259/.366 with 18 home runs and 66 RBIs. He performed significantly better in the Minor Leagues, where he most recently hit 24 home runs in 74 games with Triple-A Salt Lake last season.

Early in July, Adell appeared to have a chance to get more playing time, especially after Trout suffered a hamate fracture that effectively terminated his season. However, in only his fourth game following his call-up, Adell sustained a left oblique strain. He was placed on the injured list mid-July and was unable to return to the lineup until September.

However, since there is no pressing need to act, they may alternatively wait for it to unfold this spring. While Adell and Ward endured prolonged injuries during the previous season, Hicks and Trout have struggled in recent years to maintain their health.

What the Angels do with Adell is the true uncertainty, even if Hick's signing was centered around his potential contributions to the team.