Upton deal accelerates playoff push

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Justin Upton was eager to get back into a playoff race. The Angels desperately needed another big bat to bolster their postseason push.

With the Angels acquiring the slugger in a late-season trade Thursday, Upton has at least one month in Orange County to decide whether to make it his long-term home.

The Angels acquired the fourtime All-Star outfielder from the Tigers for pitching prospect Grayson Long and cash or a player to be named. The Angels also allowed Cameron Maybin to leave on a waiver claim by the Astros, clearing the way for Upton to take over in left field.

“What I'm excited about is being back into playoff contention and trying to help the Angels get to where they want to go,” said Upton, who was traded on the final day to be eligible for postseason play. “I think I can be a piece that helps that.”

Upton, who has an opt-out clause after this season, was an All-Star this year for the struggling Tigers. He’s batting .279 with 28 home runs and 94 RBIs. He represents an immediate upgrade in left for the Angels (69-65), who are only 11⁄2 games out of a playoff spot. They gone 20-11 since July 28.

“This team showed a lot of fight (this) year,” GM Billy Eppler said. “Their play warranted a continued investment in this club, which we were able to do.”

In addition, the Tigers are actively shopping former AL Cy Young Award winner Justin Verlander, MLB.com reported. The Astros are one of the teams engaged in talks for the veteran right-hander, the report said.

Verlander is guaranteed more than $56 million through 2019 but has cleared waivers and can be dealt if he waives his no-trade clause. have