Spring training position battles

• Recommend0
• Tweet0
• Email

Los Angeles Angels: Third Base

No knock on Wood: Brandon Wood was believed to be the favorite for the Angels' third-base job when Chone Figgins left via free agency. But once Maicer Izturis signed a three-year, $10 million deal this winter, Wood still had to win the job. Angels manager Mike Scioscia conceded Monday that Wood, a 2003 first-round draft choice, has the inside track.

"(Wood) has to show he's ready, but right now, we're looking for him to get the first opportunity there, with Izzy helping out with the versatility he brings to play second, third and shortstop," Scioscia said via the Los Angeles Times.

While the Angels have always liked Wood's defensive skills, they still need to be convinced he can hit on a regular basis.

To see more position battles -- including who may replace Alex Gordon when he returns -- you must be an ESPN Insider.

• Recommend0
• Tweet0
• Email
• Subscribe