JUST NOW: Angels Pull Off Surprise Trade, Acquire Catcher from White Sox After Chicago Lands Former LAA Backstop
The Los Angeles Angels have acquired catcher Chuckie Robinson from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for cash considerations. This move comes as part of a series of transactions involving multiple teams and players.
Robinson, who turned 30 on December 16, 2024, brings depth to the Angels’ catching position. He’ll likely serve as the third-string catcher behind Logan O’Hoppe and Travis d’Arnaud. While Robinson’s offensive numbers in the majors have been modest (.132 batting average with a .364 OPS in 51 games), he’s shown defensive prowess. Last season, he threw out 21.4% of would-be base-stealers and ranked 22nd out of 72 catchers in pitch framing (minimum 500 pitches).
To make room for Robinson on their 40-man roster, the Angels designated right-handed pitcher Davis Daniel for assignment. Daniel, 27, had struggled with the Angels, posting a 5.06 ERA in 42⅔ major league innings.
This move addresses the Angels’ need for minor league catching depth, especially after trading Matt Thaiss earlier in the offseason. Robinson has minor league options remaining, which gives the Angels more roster flexibility compared to the out-of-options Thaiss.
The transaction is part of a larger chain of moves:
1. The Angels initially traded Thaiss to the Cubs.
2. The Cubs then traded Thaiss to the White Sox.
3. The White Sox, after acquiring Thaiss, were able to trade Robinson to the Angels.
This series of moves demonstrates the intricate nature of MLB roster management, especially during the offseason. Teams are constantly adjusting their rosters to balance immediate needs, long-term potential, and roster flexibility.
For the Angels, this acquisition provides insurance behind their primary catchers and adds a defensively capable player to their system. While Robinson’s major league numbers haven’t been impressive, his minor league track record (.723 OPS) suggests potential for improvement.
Matt Thaiss has a chance to carve out some playing time
Korey Lee and Matt Thaiss should start in a catcher platoon for the White Sox. Thaiss will need to hold off Edgar Quero to keep his place on the major league roster, just like he did when he was a member of the Angels. He will also need to hold off Kyle Teel, unlike when he was a member of the Angels. Teel is as near to MLB-ready as a prospect can get, having been acquired in the Garrett Crochet trade.
With the White Sox, Thaiss will get back together with his former hitting instructor Marcus Thames, pitching coach Matt Wise, and bullpen coach Drew Butera. With the Angels, he collaborated closely with all three of those coaches.