With pitchers and catchers scheduled to report to Tempe, Ariz., by Feb. 18, it's time to dissect the Angels' 2016 roster. This is the fourth of a six-part Around the Horn series taking a position-by-position look at projected starters and backup options heading into the season. Next up: middle infield. (previously: catcher, corner infield, bullpen)
ANAHEIM -- On one side of second base, the Angels have one of the premier defensive players in the game. On the other side, well, not so much.
The Angels took care of shortstop long term in the early stages of this offseason, trading free-agent-in-waiting Erick Aybar and their top two prospects, Sean Newcomb and Chris Ellis, to the Braves for Andrelton Simmons.