Robb

Quinlan

Quinlan, the PCL MVP last year, hit .185 this spring. His departure leaves Jeff DaVanon and Chone Figgins as the candidates for the final spot on Anaheim’s bench.

In his last 13 games alone, Quinlan has hit .489 (23-for-47) with three homers and 13 RBI. His recent surge will likely cost slumping Chone Figgins some playing time.

Quinlan, the PCL MVP last year, is batting .332 with nine homers and 65 RBI in 84 games this season. The 26-year-old isn’t needed in Anaheim right now, but if the team loses another first baseman or outfielder, he would be the top candidate for a promotion.

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.

Quinlan was cleared in order to make room for right-hander Trevor Bell. The veteran utility man is hitless in six at-bats with the Angels this season.

Back from a torn oblique, Quinlan will compete with Lou Merloni for playing time at third base against lefties and enter the mix at DH. He’ll probably have a little value in AL-only leagues.

With no Izturis to platoon with at third base, that means Quinlan is in line for everyday playing time until Izturis returns. ''We’ll ride that out,’' Scioscia said.

Quinlan had received just two at-bats all month. Kind of makes it tough to bust out of a slump.

''He has terrific hands, and whatever he can get to, he’ll catch,’' manager Mike Scioscia said. ''What he lacks in range and arm strength, he makes up for with guts and glory.’' In addition to the glory, Quinlan has outstanding minor league numbers and has hit .323/.375/.469 in two stints with the Angels. He is a major sleeper on draft day.