Matt Thaiss Adapts Quickly To New Position

TEMPE, Ariz.—The Angels have little doubt that Matt Thaiss’ bat will play in the big leagues. Former scouting director Ric Wilson called him “one of the top hitters” in the 2016 draft after the Angels used the 16th overall pick to select the former Virginia star.

Thaiss did not disappoint in his pro debut. In 67 games, mostly at low Class A Burlington, he hit .292/.361/.462 with six home runs. He struck out just 11 percent of the time.

“That’s an incredibly low strikeout rate,” farm director Mike LaCassa said. “His approach at the plate is exceptional, and he hits line drives. He’s a gap-to-gap hitter and a very solid offensive player.”

How quickly the 21-year-old Thaiss advances will likely depend on his glove. He signed for a slightly below-slot value of $2.15 million after playing catcher in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

The Angels knew when they drafted Thaiss that they would move him to first base. Though the 6-foot, 195-pound lefthanded batter may not be as tall as many big league first basemen, he is developing into a proficient defender.

“He’s athletic,” Angels manager Mike Scioscia said. “Switching from behind the plate to first base, there’s obviously a lot of things he needs to get in touch with. He’s got all the tools to be a terrific defensive first baseman. He moves well. He’s got really good hands.”

Thaiss committed 11 errors in 58 games at first base last season but made considerable strides during instructional league.

The Angels plan to start Thaiss at high Class A Inland Empire and advance him to Double-A Mobile by midseason. Though his hit tool is more advanced than his power, his work in the weight room could add to his power production.

“His baseball intelligence, his competitiveness and maturity have been well beyond what you’d expect from a guy in his first six months of pro ball,” LaCassa said. “You see that in his plate discipline, when he spits on pitches just off the plate, and with the transition he made to first base.”

ANGEL FOOD

• Reliever Austin Adams, a 30-year-old righthander acquired from the Indians on Feb. 10, immediately became one of the hardest throwers (96-98 mph) in the organization.

• The Angels removed 27-year-old Deolis Guerra from the 40-man roster after he cleared waivers. Los Angeles designated him for assignment to clear a roster spot for Adams. Guerra logged 53.1 relief innings for the Angels last season.

— Mike DiGiovanna covers the Angels for the Los Angeles Times