Reggie

Willits

Willits was 3-for-10 since being recalled on July 19.

Willits is beginning his third stint in the majors this season. He’d have some value if he ever received significant time in center field, but it’s probably not going to happen until more injuries strike. He is in the lineup with Garret Anderson (back) sidelined again tonight.

Willits, 30, appeared in 20 games with the Angels this season and went just 1-for-22. He can play all three outfield positions and knows how to work the count, but he’ll likely have to accept a minor league deal.

Hunter had planned to be the designated hitter Sunday, but his knee was simply too stiff, so he’ll rest instead. Neither he nor the team feel it’s a serious injury, so he should be back in the order Monday or Tuesday. Reggie Willits plays center in Hunter’s place and Robb Quinlan takes over as the Angels’ DH.

Reggie Willits will take his place in right field and bat ninth against Derek Holland.

Reggie Willits started in his place on Tuesday. Hunter is expected back for Wednesday’s game.

Scioscia indicated that Reggie Willits will continue to play nearly every day once Anderson returns, which means Shea Hillenbrand will likely see a dramatic decrease in at-bats. With Willits playing very well in left field, Anderson could become the regular designated hitter.

Just how many more games would the Angels have lost this year had Garret Anderson not gotten hurt on April 27? The Angels were 12-11 on that date and Willits had a total of 20 at-bats. Since that date, the club is 35-16 and Willits is hitting .353 in 170 at-bats. He’s also totaled 34 walks, a figure than Anderson has exceeded once in a 14-year career. Willits’ playing time likely would have increased anyway, but it would have been far more gradual. It’s doubtful that he would have ended up the legitimate Rookie of the Year contender that he is now.

Willits is batting .346 in 52 at-bats this month. If he keeps it up, he’ll have hit better than .330 in each of the first three months, even though he barely played during April.

The Angels remain tied with the Red Sox for the game’s best record at 55-35. Willits entered 3-for-26 with no runs scored this month. His rate stats will likely continue to decline a bit, though not so sharply that he should be replaced in the lineup. He should remain a quality fantasy outifelder as long as the Angels continue to use him at the top of the order.