The Angels acquired INF Oswald Peraza from the Yankees at the 2025 trade deadline. Learn why GM Perry Minasian believes this move keeps the Halos competitive.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The trade deadline has passed, and the Angels have made their move, albeit not the one many expected. In a bid to inject new life and potential into their infield, the Halos acquired former top prospect Oswald Peraza from the New York Yankees. The move signals a clear strategy from General Manager Perry Minasian: stay competitive now while giving young talent a chance to prove themselves in the big leagues.
'Being competitive in August and September is really, really important for this group, not only for the now but for the future.' - GM Perry Minasian
Just before the buzzer, the Angels sent minor league pitcher Wilberson De Pena and international bonus pool money to New York for infielder Oswald Peraza. Once a highly-touted prospect, Peraza struggled to find his footing in the Bronx, hitting just .152 in 71 games. The Angels are hoping a fresh start in Anaheim is just what he needs. To make room on the 40-man roster, the team designated veteran infielder Kevin Newman for assignment, clearing the path for Peraza to get immediate playing time and show what he can do.
While some fans anticipated a sell-off of veteran players, GM Perry Minasian doubled down on his commitment to the current roster. He explained that keeping players like Kenley Jansen, Tyler Anderson, and Luis Rengifo was crucial for maintaining a competitive environment for the team's developing core. The goal isn't to tank for draft picks, but to build a winning culture by playing meaningful baseball down the stretch. The acquisition of Peraza, a young player with high upside, fits perfectly into this 'win-now and evaluate' model.
With the front office moves set, the focus shifts back to the diamond. The Angels (53-56) open a crucial three-game homestand tonight against the struggling Chicago White Sox (40-69). Currently sitting fourth in the AL West, nine games behind Houston, the Halos need to string together wins. They'll rely on the hot bats of Taylor Ward, who leads the team with 25 homers and 78 RBIs, and the consistent on-base presence of Nolan Schanuel (.365 OBP) to get the job done and start the weekend on a high note.
As the dust settles from the deadline, all eyes turn to the field. The Angels' front office has placed its bet: that meaningful games in August and September, fueled by a mix of veterans and new blood like Peraza, are more valuable than a full-scale rebuild. The weekend series against the White Sox is the first test of this philosophy. Can a change of scenery unlock Peraza's potential, and can this team find the spark to make the final two months count?
