Arol Vera Added to Trash Pandas Roster
SL Rocket City Trash Pandas

Arol Vera Added to Trash Pandas Roster

Published on April 27, 2026 under Southern League (SL)
Rocket City Trash Pandas News Release


MADISON, AL - The Angels announced on Monday the addition of infielder Arol Vera to the roster prior to Tuesday's 6:05 pm CT series opener against the Knoxville Smokies at Toyota Field. Vera will occupy the roster spot of infielder Ben Gobbel, who was placed on the 7-day Injured List on Sunday.

Vera, 23, a native of Valencia, Venezuela, was originally signed by the Los Angeles Angels as an international free agent in 2019. Vera joins Rocket City from the Arizona Complex League, where he had not yet appeared in a game this season. In his last stint with the Trash Pandas in 2025, he appeared in 30 games, batting .167 with four doubles, one home run, four RBIs, and 10 runs scored, highlighted by his lone home run on August 27 against Columbus. He was transferred to Rocket City from High-A Tri-City on August 2 and, with Tri-City in 2025, played in 62 games, hitting .230 with five home runs and 20 RBIs. Over parts of three seasons playing for the Trash Pandas, the former No. 7 prospect for the Angels, holds a .187 batting average over 120 games, including four home runs and 33 RBIs.

Across five minor league seasons, Vera owns a .222 batting average with 17 home runs and 198 RBIs over 1,852 at-bats.

The Trash Pandas begin a six-game homestand on Tuesday night at Toyota Field. The first pitch is set for 6:05 pm with RHP Joel Hurtado (0-1, 7.24) starting for Rocket City, while Knoxville has not announced a starter. The game can be seen on WAAY-TV Ch. 31.6, Bally Sports Live, MiLB.tv, and heard on Talk Radio WZZN 97.7 FM HD-2, and ESPN The Zone 97.7 FM.

Tuesday's Promotions:

James Spann Bobblehead Giveaway: The first 1,000 adults 18 or older will receive a James Spann Bobblehead, presented by SportsMed. The Trash Pandas honor the legendary meteorologist known for his calm, trusted coverage and lifelong commitment to keeping communities safe when it matters most. Spann will throw out a ceremonial first pitch and sign autographs on the Bill Penney concourse until the third inning.

Tito's Tail Waggin' Tuesday: Bring your four-legged friend to the ballpark on Tail Waggin' Tuesdays! Fans with dogs are welcome to enjoy the game in Sections 1 and 2 or out on the grass berm, and a pup cup from Sweet Space. While pups don't need a ticket, we kindly ask for a $1 donation per dog upon entry, with all proceeds benefiting the Greater Huntsville Humane Society. All dogs must enter through the Pepsi Gate with a completed waiver and remain on a leash throughout the game.

Pet Supplies Drive: Fans are encouraged to donate pet supplies each Tuesday, which will be donated at the end of the season.

Tickets are available starting at just $8 for general admission and $16 for field-level seats. They can be purchased online HERE. Fans can book a group outing for the 2026 season by visiting trashpandasgroups.com or by calling the group sales department directly at (256) 325-1403 option 2. Mini Plans game tickets are also available at TPTix.com. A complete promotional schedule for the season can be found HERE.

Fans are reminded that Toyota Field follows MiLB's clear bag policy. Guests are allowed one clear bag no larger than 12" x 6$B!m(B x 12" or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag. Small, clear clutches are also permitted. Exceptions will be made for medical needs and parents with infants (diaper bags). Learn more about this policy here.




Southern League Stories from April 27, 2026


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