Angels' Zach Neto Out for Opening Day After Shoulder Surgery

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Zach Neto will not be ready for Opening Day due to ongoing recovery from right shoulder surgery, as announced by manager Ron Washington. Neto is expected to start the season on the injured list after the procedure he underwent in November, with a possible return in April. The 24-year-old, a first-round draft pick in 2022, had a breakout season in 2024, batting .249 with 23 homers and 30 stolen bases, becoming a key player for the Angels. The team may utilize utilityman Kevin Newman as a temporary replacement at shortstop while Neto recovers. Despite the setback, Neto's performance in 2024 marked him as one of the few bright spots on an Angels team that struggled significantly last season, finishing with a franchise-worst record. The injury occurred while sliding into a base in September, and subsequent treatment did not alleviate the issue.