ESPN RECALL: Catcher Chad Wallach, a recent addition to the Los Angeles Angels organization, made headlines Tuesday night by launching two grand slams in one game for the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees. Despite his heroic eight-RBI performance, the Bees fell short in an 18–15 shootout. Wallach, 33, signed a minor league deal with the Angels earlier this month after B…read more.

Chad Wallach Blasts Two Grand Slams in Triple-A Game After Signing with Angels

Catcher Chad Wallach, a recent addition to the Los Angeles Angels organization, made headlines Tuesday night by launching two grand slams in one game for the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees. Despite his heroic eight-RBI performance, the Bees fell short in an 18–15 shootout.

Wallach, 33, signed a minor league deal with the Angels earlier this month after being released by the Texas Rangers on June 5. Since joining Salt Lake, he’s been on fire at the plate, hitting .318 with a .375 on-base percentage and a powerful .818 slugging percentage. Tuesday’s performance raised his home run total to three with 11 RBIs in a short span.

A Night to Remember in Salt Lake

Wallach’s first grand slam came at a crucial moment, helping Salt Lake rally. His second came later in the game, giving the Bees a temporary lead. Though the team ultimately lost, Wallach’s achievement stood out as one of the most impressive offensive performances in recent memory for Salt Lake.

This showing could mark a turning point in Wallach’s career. Known more for his defensive skills behind the plate than his offense, he’s now drawing attention for his bat.

Veteran Catcher’s Career Path

Wallach made his MLB debut in 2017 with the Cincinnati Reds and has since played for the Marlins, Dodgers, and Angels. He spent much of 2023 with the Angels, appearing in 65 games and hitting seven home runs. Though his major league batting average has hovered below .200, Tuesday’s game showed a different side of the veteran.

His eight RBIs in one game set a personal best and demonstrated the value of his experience and persistence. He seems to have found new life with the Bees, combining solid contact and power — a combination that could earn him another shot in the majors.

Will He Get Another Chance in Anaheim?

The Angels’ big-league catching core is currently set with Logan O’Hoppe as the starter and Travis d’Arnaud as the backup. However, Wallach’s recent surge may put him on the radar if an injury occurs or if the team wants to shake up the roster.

General Manager Perry Minasian has emphasized the importance of depth, and Wallach’s veteran presence could be a factor as the team chases a playoff spot. The Angels are hovering just under .500 and remain close to an AL wild-card berth, making every roster decision critical.

Looking Ahead

For now, Wallach will stay with Salt Lake, where his recent performance has energized both teammates and fans. His two grand slams in a single game are a rare feat at any level of baseball — and a reminder that persistence and experience can pay off in big ways.

While his path back to the majors isn’t guaranteed, Chad Wallach is making a strong case that he’s not done yet.