Los Angeles Angels outfielder Yoan Moncada was forced to miss the team’s game on Tuesday as he took his United States citizenship test, an event that drew attention to his personal journey and the broader implications of his career decisions. The 30-year-old Cuban native, who signed with the Boston Red Sox as an international free agent for a signing bonus exceeding $31 million, is now seeking U.S. citizenship, reflecting his deepening integration into American society.
Moncada, who made his MLB debut at the age of 21, has had a mixed career trajectory. He quickly rose to prominence as a top prospect, but his professional journey has been marked by ups and downs. His time with the Red Sox and White Sox saw periods of strong performance, including a 2019 season where he hit .315 with a .915 OPS and posted a career-best 5.1 WAR. However, his 2018 season was marred by an MLB-high 217 strikeouts, highlighting the challenges he has faced in adjusting to the major leagues.
Despite these challenges, Moncada has remained a valuable player, particularly in 2023 when he represented Team Cuba in the World Baseball Classic. His performance there underscored his talent, as he slashed .435/.519/.739. However, his career has also included periods of inconsistency, with his 2021 season with the White Sox showing a mix of promise and struggle. The team’s decision to sign him in 2022, following a trade for Cy Young Award winner Chris Sale, has had mixed results, with the White Sox setting the modern-era record for the most losses in a single season.
Moncada’s decision to pursue U.S. citizenship is a significant personal milestone, though it does not impact the financial aspects of his career. The Angels, seeking to bolster their lineup, may need to manage their roster carefully, especially as Moncada’s availability for Wednesday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays remains uncertain. His journey highlights the complexities of balancing professional sports with personal life and national identity in the United States.