Former Angels outfielder signs minor league deal with Texas after weighing retirement
Another former member of the 2024 Angels has secured a spot for the 2025 season. Outfielder Kevin Pillar, who strongly contemplated retirement during the offseason, has decided to extend his career by signing a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers, which includes an invitation to major league spring training. While it initially seemed like Pillar was sticking around just long enough to reach the 10-year service time milestone, he has found renewed motivation to continue playing. Unlike last season, if Mike Trout suffers an injury, Pillar will not be available as a replacement.
“I know I said I was going to retire, but I have the right to change my mind,” Pillar told MLB.com. “I’ve been playing this game for so long and achieved many of my career goals. But the way my individual season ended left a bad taste in my mouth. … Sometimes, you don’t get to choose your own path in this sport, but I landed in the right place.”
Despite a rough 63-99 season for the Angels, Pillar provided one of the few uplifting moments by reaching 10 years of service time. Though his offensive production was modest and his defensive range had diminished, his milestone was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing year. A respected clubhouse presence, he now brings his leadership and experience to the Rangers. Had he opted for retirement, it wouldn’t have been surprising to see him transition into a player development role with the Angels, given his intangible contributions to the team.
At 36, Pillar still possesses some valuable skills that could make him a reliable bench outfielder for Texas. His arm strength remains above average, and his defensive instincts allow him to make smart plays in nearly every situation. Surprisingly, his sprint speed ranked in the 78th percentile last season—impressive for a veteran player.
Aside from Carlos Estévez and, unexpectedly, Eric Wagaman, every former Angels player who found a new team did so through a minor league contract. That list includes Pillar, Brandon Drury, Matt Moore, Luis García, Michael Stefanic, Andrew Wantz, Jack López, Carson Fulmer, and Charles Leblanc. Meanwhile, José Marte and Hunter Strickland remain free agents.
