Nolan

Fontana

Fontana went 1-for-11 with six strikeouts over a couple different stints with the Angels in 2018. They ultimately released him in early September. The 27-year-old former second-round pick of the Astros will function as organizational infield depth for the Rangers leading into the 2019 season.

In doing so, they kicked off Day 2 of the draft. Interestingly, Fontana was MLB.com’s 61st-ranked draft prospect. Fontana has solid skills across the board, but no overwhelming individual talent. A left-handed batter with a good approach at the plate, Fontana is expected to move quickly through the minors. Most believe he’ll eventually stick at second base.

Originally a second-round pick of the Astros in 2012, the 25-year-old batted just .203/.282/.273 in 116 games between Double- and Triple-A this past season. Despite that, the Angels are willing to give him a 40-man roster spot for the time being.

Fontana went 1-for-18 with seven strikeouts during his short stay at the major league level. Tuesday’s starter Parker Bridwell is taking his 25-man roster spot.

Fontana will replace C.J. Cron on the active roster. The 25-year-old was claimed off waivers from the Astros over the winter and was batting .265/.374/.426 with five home runs and 25 RBI through 38 games this season in Triple-A.

Nolan Fontana will get the nod at second base in his major league debut. Espinosa went 1-for-3 with two walks on Sunday, but he’s batting just .152/.242/.280 through 42 games this season.

Fontana went 1-for-18 in a stint in the majors earlier this season. He won’t play much this month.

The 24-year-old infielder hasn’t progressed as rapidly as the Astros had hoped afer making Fontana the 61st overall selection in the 2012 draft. He hit just .241/.369/.357 with three homers and 40 RBI in 117 games at Triple-A Fresno in 2015. He could potentially see action with the Astros as a utility infielder in 2016.

Fontana picked up just two hits in 19 Grapefruit League at-bats. The 24-year-old infielder could eventually find his place as a utility infielder with the Astros.

The 26-year-old saw limited action with the Angels in 2017, going 1-for-20 (.050) with eight strikeouts. He’ll add infield depth while Ian Kinsler is sidelined.