Los Angeles Angels outfielder Jo Adell made his first appearance against the Angels since they traded him at the deadline on Monday.
Adell, a former first-rounder for the Angels, played in parts of seven seasons for the team, breaking out in 2025 with a 37-homer year. The Angels took advantage of the slugger’s year and a half of team control at the deadline, sending him to the Cleveland Guardians for catching prospect Jacob Cozart.
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Despite his abrupt dismissal from the team, Adell only had good things to say about the organization.
“I turned into a man and a big leaguer in the Angels organization,” Adell said. “I got a chance to grow up and find who I was as a player. It’s really a full-circle moment to be here and be on the other side and playing this group.”
The Angels welcomed Adell back Monday with a tribute video before the game, and also gave the outfielder a loud ovation during his first at-bat as they played his walk-up song—during which catcher Travis d’Arnaud walked to the mound to allow the fans to have a moment. Adell saluted the crowd before the at-bat, then struck out.
On the evening, Adell went 1-for-3 with a single and an RBI as the Guardians took a 4-2 win over the Angels in the first game of the series.
Aug 24, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Cleveland Guardians designated hitter Jo Adell (7) acknowledges the crowd before hitting against the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesHow Did Jo Adell Play as an Angel?
Drafted in 2017, Adell spent a couple of years in the minors before making his MLB debut in the COVID-abbreviated 2020 season. He made 38 appearances for the team, hitting three homers and driving in seven runs while posting a .478 OPS.
He split time between MLB and the minors for the next few seasons, playing 140 games between 2021 and 2023 and posting a collective .665 OPS in MLB across those three seasons.
He became a full-time player in 2024, playing 130 games and hitting 20 homers over the course of the season. Adell had a .682 OPS in his first full MLB season, driving in 62 runs. Last year was the best of his career, as he broke out with 37 homers and 98 RBIs over the course of the year. He had a career-high .778 OPS last year, and maintained his solid bat this year.
Adell didn’t perform quite as well in 2026, but still hit 16 homers and had 62 RBIs during his time with the Angels this season. Since joining the Guardians, Adell has been one other better players with a .861 OPS and four homers through 18 games.
While he plays for another team now, Adell’s status as a beloved Angel hasn’t changed.