Angels Trade Catcher Matt Thaiss to Cubs in Roster Shuffle

The Los Angeles Angels have announced a trade involving catcher Matt Thaiss, who will be joining the Chicago Cubs in exchange for cash considerations. This move comes shortly after the Angels designated Thaiss for assignment last week. To accommodate Thaiss on their roster, the Cubs have designated right-hander Trey Wingenter for assignment, as reported by Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune on X.

Thaiss, who will turn 30 in May, departs the Angels for the first time in his professional career. He was drafted by the Angels as the 16th overall pick in the first round of the 2016 MLB Draft. Initially a catcher in college, the Angels drafted him as a corner infielder, indicating their interest in his offensive potential.

Throughout his progression in the minor leagues, Thaiss demonstrated his batting capabilities, hitting .279/.363/.445 with a 117 wRC+ across multiple levels from 2016 to 2019. However, his major league performance has not matched his minor league success. In 771 big league plate appearances, Thaiss has posted a .208/.313/.342 line with an 83 wRC+.

While this level of production is suboptimal for a corner infielder, it is more acceptable for a backup catcher. The Angels, often crowded with designated hitters and corner infielders like Shohei Ohtani, Albert Pujols, Anthony Rendon, and Jared Walsh, transitioned Thaiss back to catching in 2021. Most defensive metrics rate Thaiss as below average behind the plate, which is not surprising given his years away from the position.

Despite being a serviceable backup to Logan O’Hoppe in recent seasons, the Angels decided to move forward without Thaiss. The recent signing of Travis d’Arnaud to a two-year contract made Thaiss the third catcher on the depth chart. With no remaining options, the Angels designated him for assignment, leading to the trade with the Cubs.

For the Cubs, Thaiss represents a practical addition amidst their current uncertainties behind the plate. The team released Yan Gomes in June, Tomás Nido in August, and outrighted Christian Bethancourt in November. Before acquiring Thaiss, Miguel Amaya was the sole catcher on their 40-man roster. It was reported in August that the Cubs would seek catching help this winter.

Amaya showed promise towards the end of the season but had an overall subpar year. With no remaining options and a recent top prospect status, Amaya likely secures a roster spot but still has much to prove at the major league level. In 170 MLB games, Amaya holds a .227/.300/.357 batting line with an 87 wRC+.

​The addition of Thaiss provides the Cubs with a seasoned player who can add depth and experience to their catching roster. This move offers Thaiss a fresh start and an opportunity to prove his worth in a new setting.