Angels Ink Ben Gamel with Minor League Contract for 2025 Season

The Los Angeles Angels just added some outfield depth by signing veteran Ben Gamel to a minor league deal. Right now, he’s at Triple-A Salt Lake.

At 33, Gamel’s career path is pretty interesting. He could give the Angels some much-needed left-handed balance, even though the current roster’s got some tough competition.

Gamel’s been around the majors for nine years. He brings experience, versatility, and maybe a steady bat to a team that really needs some lineup stability as the season drags on.

Who Is Ben Gamel, and What Does He Bring to the Table?

Gamel broke into MLB back in 2016 with the Yankees. He landed with the Mariners later that year.

During two seasons in Seattle, he became a pretty dependable everyday guy. He chipped in solid offense and was considered a league-average outfielder.

Things got a little rocky after he went to the Brewers. His offense dipped, and after two seasons, Milwaukee let him go.

Recent Challenges and Comeback Potential

Since 2021, Gamel’s bounced around five MLB teams. He’s shown he can handle both the outfield and first base, which teams seem to like in a utility player.

His last big-league stint was with the Astros in 2024, where he put up a strong 117 wRC+ over 20 games. Then he fractured his fibula, which wiped out the rest of his season.

This spring, the Astros brought him back, clearly hoping he’d bounce back. But then Cam Smith, a top prospect, broke out, and Houston chose youth over the veteran.

Gamel ended up with Detroit’s Triple-A squad but didn’t get much playing time. They released him in April, which led him to the Angels.

Why Ben Gamel Is a Strategic Fit for the Los Angeles Angels

Gamel’s not a headline-grabbing signing, but honestly, he might be a smart one. The Angels’ outfield bats from the right side almost exclusively, so a lefty like Gamel could actually help balance things out.

They did just grab LaMonte Wade Jr., another lefty, so Gamel’s path back to the majors isn’t wide open. Still, his steady production could make him a useful backup or fill-in if injuries hit.

Minor League Assignment and Path to the Big Leagues

Gamel’s at Triple-A Salt Lake right now, and this is his shot to prove he belongs in the majors. Health is going to be huge for him.

If he stays off the IL and hits like he can, maybe he gets another shot in Anaheim later this year. It’s not out of the question.

What Angels Fans Can Expect from Gamel’s Experience

In his nine MLB seasons, Gamel’s earned a rep as a reliable, adaptable player. He’s not a slugger or a star, but he knows how to keep things steady and cover ground in the outfield.

If he gets the chance, Angels fans should expect smart, gritty baseball from Gamel. He does the little things right, and that kind of balance is something this lineup could really use.

Final Thoughts on Gamel’s Potential Role

Injuries or slumps could shake up the Angels’ roster as the season rolls on. Ben Gamel’s experience might turn into a valuable backup plan.

His left-handed swing could really help balance out the team’s right-handed lineup. Gamel’s track record shows he can step up in short bursts if the majors call him up.

Right now, Gamel isn’t making headlines, but Angels fans should keep tabs on him. Maybe this minor-league move ends up mattering more than anyone expects.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Angels Sign Ben Gamel To Minor League Deal