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Neto’s improved plate discipline could unlock his offensive potential and provide a boost to the Angels’ lineup.Chicago Today
Los Angeles Angels rookie Zach Neto has shown early signs of improved plate discipline in the 2026 season. After walking just 33 times in 2025, Neto has already drawn five walks in his first 20 plate appearances this year. His coaches have emphasized the importance of being selective at the plate, and Neto has responded by swinging at significantly fewer pitches outside the strike zone compared to last season.
Why it matters
Neto’s improved plate discipline could be a key factor in his development as a hitter and the Angels’ success this season. Being more selective at the plate can lead to more walks, higher on-base percentages, and better overall offensive production. If Neto can sustain this approach, it would be a positive sign for the Angels’ lineup and Neto’s long-term potential.
The details
In his second plate appearance of spring training, Neto swung at a slider in the dirt, prompting hitting coaches Brady Anderson and John Mabry to emphasize the importance of being selective and getting his pitch. While Neto still walked just five times in 53 Cactus League plate appearances, the message has taken hold in the regular season. Neto has swung at only 12% of pitches in the ‘chase’ zone so far this year, down from 25% in 2025. This improved discipline has led to Neto drawing five walks in his first 20 plate appearances, compared to just 33 walks all of last season.
Neto drew five walks in his first 20 plate appearances of the 2026 season in the four games in Houston.Last year, Neto only drew 33 walks all season.
The players
Zach Neto
A rookie outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels who has shown early signs of improved plate discipline in the 2026 season.
Brady Anderson
A hitting coach for the Los Angeles Angels who has emphasized the importance of plate discipline to Neto.
John Mabry
A hitting coach for the Los Angeles Angels who has worked with Neto on improving his plate discipline.
Kurt Suzuki
The manager of the Los Angeles Angels, who is excited about Neto’s potential if he can sustain his improved plate discipline.
Antonio Knowles
A minor league pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who faced Neto in spring training.
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What they’re saying
“You gotta get your pitch. You can’t be going out there chasing. You’re too good of a player to be doing that.”
— Zach Neto, Angels Outfielder
“With anybody, but especially Zach with that skill set, if you get in the zone and get disciplined, you never know what could be. I think it’s an exciting thing to think about. It’s exciting for him too, which is why he’s really working on it and honing in on it.”
— Kurt Suzuki, Angels Manager
What’s next
The Angels will continue to monitor Neto’s plate discipline as the season progresses to see if he can sustain this improved approach at the plate.
The takeaway
Neto’s early success in drawing more walks and being more selective at the plate is an encouraging sign for the Angels. If he can maintain this discipline, it could unlock his full offensive potential and provide a significant boost to the Angels’ lineup.