Jakob Guardado and Alec Gomez signed with the Los Angeles Angels, according to The Athletic. The pair, longtime teammates and undrafted free agents, are facing scrutiny regarding potential nepotism stemming from Guardado’s father, an Angels executive.
What happened
On July 21, 2026, Jakob Guardado and Alec Gomez celebrated a milestone together, marking their entry into professional baseball as undrafted free agents with the Los Angeles Angels. However, their signings have drawn attention for possible nepotism, given Guardado’s connection to Eddie Guardado, a former player and current executive with the team.[1]
While players with elite lineage have historically performed well, Guardado and Gomez did not exhibit standout college performances. Coach evaluations indicate skepticism about their suitability for professional contracts. “It was a stretch to sign him to a pro contract,” a college coach remarked, speaking on condition of anonymity. Both players declined to comment through team representatives.[3]
Historically, drafting or signing family members became common in baseball, often occurring in later rounds of drafts. However, fundamental changes in roster dynamics, including the elimination of numerous minor league teams and draft rounds, have made team selections more scrutinized. “It’s much different today,” a scouting director noted. “You can’t afford to waste roster spots.”[2]
Why it matters
The scrutiny surrounding these signings reflects broader issues in the sport, particularly as roster spots become increasingly scarce. Every signing is now heavily analyzed, influencing not just the careers of the signed players but also the opportunities for others who may be more deserving. “You’re going to have guys either not move up and get the development they need, or get cut,” an agent stated.
With an established emphasis on meritocracy in team decisions, the implications of selecting players with familial connections are more pronounced than ever. Players who may otherwise have a legitimate claim to roster spots can be adversely affected by perceived favoritism.
Background
On May 19, 2021, significant changes to minor league structures began, resulting in the removal of 40 minor league teams, the trimming of 20 draft rounds, and the introduction of a hard 165-player domestic organizational cap in 2023. These adjustments intensified competition among potential signings, causing any discussions of nepotism to raise eyebrows.
Historically, teams might have used low-stakes rounds to draft family members or sign them post-draft. The Phillies selected the sons of multiple organizational employees in 2015, while the Padres drafted Rick Renteria’s son in 2007 and 2012. Such practices were commonplace until recent years.
What’s next
Future evaluation of Jakob Guardado’s performance will be critical as the Angels assess his potential alongside the ongoing debate surrounding nepotism. The team plans to monitor his development closely through the 2026 season.
