The Albert Pujols signing has created a bit of a logjam for the Angels.
The $254 million man takes over at first base, knocking 2011 AL Rookie of the Year runner up Mark Trumbo to another position on the diamond. He could DH, but the Angels would prefer to use switch-hitting Kendrys Morales — if he's fully recovered after missing most of the last two seasons with an ankle injury — or Bobby Abreu, who swings from the left side of the plate, to give LA some balance in their predominantly right-handed lineup.
Allowing Abreu to DH will certainly help ease some of the crowd in the outfield, with Peter Bourjos, Torii Hunter and Vernon Wells expected to start with Abreu and uber-prospect Mike Trout expected to challenge for time. That's two extra outfielders in addition to Trumbo and Morales likely looking for time at DH.
So, the Angels' ideal lineup will have a healthy Morales return to DH and Trumbo at third, if he can figure out how to man the hot corner, relegating Abreu to being trade bait, or a fourth outfield on a deep roster.
So, can Trumbo do it?
The good news is he isn't alone in making this transition in 2012. With Prince Fielder joining the Tigers, speculation has been that Miguel Cabrera will move across the diamond and return to the third base position he played earlier in his career. And in Miami, All-Star shortstop Jose Reyes signed a huge deal to join the Marlins, taking over for another All-Star shortstop, bumping Hanley Ramirez to third.
How will these players fare at their new positions?
FOXSportsWest.com takes a look at the last 10 players to make the transition to third base after playing at least 100 games at a different position the previous season...PHOTOS
