With the MLB trade deadline now over, teams like the Los Angeles Angels can begin to evaluate their roster and look ahead to 2027.
On Tuesday, the Angels started that process by parting ways with veteran slugger Jorge Soler. As first reported by MLB insider Mike Rodriguez, Soler was designated for assignment ahead of the team's game against the Baltimore Orioles.
Soler, 34, first joined the Angels via a trade from the Atlanta Braves in October 2024 for starting pitcher Griffin Canning. He has appeared in 168 games for the Halos, slashing .208/.292/.380 with 24 home runs and 83 RBI. Before joining the Angels, Soler played for the Chicago Cubs, Kansas City Royals, Miami Marlins, San Francisco Giants, and two stints with the Braves.
The former AL home run leader has seen his batting profile decline over the past few seasons. His walk rate has dipped, and he is posting a 32.7% strikeout rate in 2026. While he still hits the ball hard when he makes contact, his .664 OPS would be the lowest mark of his career aside from 2017, when he only played in 35 games due to a slew of injuries.
With about $4 million of his $13 million left to pay, Soler will most likely go unclaimed through waivers. After he clears waivers, Soler would be able to join a playoff-bound team as a veteran bench bat, but likely on a minor league deal. He currently sits 35th on the active home run leader list with 215 career long balls.
According to BeisbolFR.com's Francys Romero, the Angels were actively shopping Soler at the deadline with at least two teams interested. With the Angels acquiring Moises Ballesteros from the Cubs at the deadline, it makes sense to play the youngster at DH to see what they have in him. Ballesteros is a catcher by trade, but has mostly played DH in the 65 MLB games he has appeared in.
The Angels have not announced a corresponding move for Soler's DFA as of Tuesday afternoon.
