Angels launch $20 million player development facility in Tempe

The Los Angeles Angels have opened a new player development facility in Tempe, Arizona, worth over $20 million. The city and the team shared the costs. This spring training, the Angels hope the advanced technology in the facility will enhance the performance of their players. Pitching coach Barry Enright is excited about the new pitching lab, claiming it provides “real-time feedback” for more effective training. The upgraded facility is much larger than the previous one and offers improved amenities for players, including a better clubhouse and dining area. The key feature of the facility is a large area with pitching and hitting tunnels. These tunnels allow for various training drills, with advanced technology like force plates and a KinaTrax system. This technology helps players analyze their movements without needing sensors on their bodies. It creates animations to visualize their throwing mechanics, offering valuable insights. Outfielder Taylor Ward praised the facility's capabilities, especially the HitTrax tool that helps players visualize their performance metrics instantly. The new technology is now standard in Major League Baseball, and the Angels are eager to use it to enhance player development, even for minor leaguers. In other news, shortstop Zach Neto is recovering from shoulder surgery but has begun throwing. Third baseman Yoán Moncada is also recovering from a bruised thumb and hasn't resumed hitting or throwing yet. Right-hander José Soriano is set to start in an upcoming game, while the team is still deciding on other pitchers for the week ahead.