The Los Angeles Angels may have kept Zach Neto through the trade deadline, but the shortstop stopped short of saying the organization has committed to building around him long term.
Neto's comments came Thursday after the Angels adjusted their lineup, moving him out of the leadoff spot. When asked whether the front office had assured him he would remain a centerpiece after he wasn't traded, the 25-year-old declined to answer directly.
The exchange came after Neto was asked about the lineup change. He responded, "Feel good. I mean, I don't make the lineups." When MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger followed up by asking whether the Angels had given him assurances they planned to build around him after the trade deadline, Neto replied, "I'm not going to answer that."
Those comments immediately fueled speculation about his future, especially with the Angels sitting at 43-71 and in last place in the American League West after another disappointing season.
Neto's remarks also came on a day that showcased his value. Batting in the cleanup spot, he hit a three-run homer, his 20th of the season, while becoming the first shortstop in franchise history to record three consecutive seasons with at least 20 home runs and 20 doubles.
Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Despite his historic milestone, questions about the organization's long-term direction remain. General manager Perry Minasian chose not to move Neto before the deadline, but the shortstop's refusal to confirm any discussions about the club's plans could keep his future in focus heading into the offseason.
Neto is under club control through the 2029 season via arbitration, giving the Angels flexibility if they decide to keep him as a cornerstone or explore trade options later. For now, however, his comments have added another layer of uncertainty to an already difficult season.
ALSO SEE:
https://athlonsports.com/mlb/los-angeles-angels/angels-donovan-walton-claimed-athletics
https://athlonsports.com/mlb/los-angeles-angels/angels-ben-joyce-rehab-assignment-arizona-complex-league
