Angels continue youth movement, call up 2B Christian Moore

Field Level Media|published: Fri 13th June, 15:57 2025

Rocket City infielder Christian Moore (7) runs during a minor league baseball game between the Knoxville Smokies and Rocket City Trash Pandas at Covenant Health Park on April 29, 2025. The Knoxville Smokies won 9-6 against the Rocket City Trash Pandas.

The Los Angeles Angels called up top prospect Christian Moore for the first time, adding the second baseman in advance of a three-game road series against the Baltimore Orioles on Friday.

Outfielder Matthew Lugo already was optioned to Triple-A Salt Lake, while right-hander Shaun Anderson was designated for assignment Friday to open a 40-man roster spot. Right-hander Sam Bachman replaced Anderson on the active roster.

Moore, 22, was the eighth overall selection in last year's draft out of Tennessee and was batting a combined .279 with five home runs and 32 RBIs in 54 games at Double- and Triple-A.

The Angels have been aggressive in calling up high college draft picks to the major leagues. Starting shortstop Zach Neto was drafted in the first round in 2022 and made his major league debut in April of 2023. Starting first baseman Nolan Schanuel was a first-round pick in 2023 and made his debut a month later.

Lugo, 24, made his debut May 9 and batted .238 with three home runs and six RBIs in 17 games.

Anderson, 30, had a 7.59 ERA in six relief appearances this season, while Bachman, 25, is up for the first time since 2023 when he went 1-2 with a 3.18 ERA in 11 relief appearances.

--Field Level Media