DENVER — Eduardo Escobar arrived in the Mile High City on Saturday ready to help his new team (Los Angeles Angels) compete for a postseason spot, but still shaking off the effects of a whirlwind trade from the New York Mets.
Capping off a wild span of less than 24 hours, Escobar met members of the media outside the Angels clubhouse in Denver, saying he's ready to help the Angels win, whatever that takes.
"I'm so happy to be here," Escobar said. "My mother absolutely taught me to be happy. When I wake up in the morning, I think God has given an opportunity to me to do what I love in my life. For me, baseball is my life. I'll be the best teammate. I've always enjoyed my career and I will bring my best energy to the team."
How Eduardo Escobar learned about the Mets-Angels trade
While he has always enjoyed his career, he was shocked when he learned in the second inning of Friday's game in Philadelphia that he had been shipped to the Angelsin exchange for a pair of minor league pitchers.
"I was surprised," Escobar said. "It was during the game and Buck (Showalter, Mets manager) said, 'Esci, you're traded.' I didn't say anything. Buck continued to talk to me and saying thank you so much. I was a little sad because I have a great team over there and great people and great friends over there.
"I was a little sad, but I'm happy now. It's an opportunity for me and for my career. I'm bringing my best to the Angels now."
Escobar was immediately inserted into the Angels lineup at third base on Saturday, batting seventh.
"I've heard nothing but great things about him (Escobar)," Angels manager Phil Nevin said. "When you're coaching or managing new players, you hear things from other people. I've gotten a lot of texts today saying this is one of the top five guys I've been around and about his personality and what he can bring to the room. I'm excited to see it."
Escobar was ready to hop into the Angels run for the postseason immediately.
"I told the manager whatever you need, I'll be 100 percent and I'll be ready," Escobar said. "For me, the most important thing is to help the team win and make this team the best team with the best energy."
