Angels Considering Alternatives as Anthony Rendon Struggles to Stay Healthy

The Angels' seven-year, $245 million contract with third baseman Anthony Rendon has not panned out as the club hoped. While Rendon had a phenomenal debut season in Anaheim during the shortened 2020 campaign, the following four seasons have been plagued by injuries and inconsistent performance. Rendon has managed just 205 games and 863 plate appearances over that period, with a slash line of .231/.329/.336 (89 wRC+) when he has been healthy enough to play. With two years and $77 million remaining on his contract, it might seem inevitable that the Angels will continue to try to make Rendon work as a key part of their lineup. However, comments from general manager Perry Minasian suggest the club is open to exploring other options.


"We have to be open to at least looking at that spot and seeing if there are other alternatives that make us better," Minasian said of the third base position. "Obviously, a healthy Anthony Rendon makes us a lot better. But with the last four years being the last four years, we need to take a look and kind of see what else is out there."


Rendon will enter Spring Training 2025 "competing for a roster spot," according to MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger. Minasian mentioned that Rendon could potentially move into a part-time utility role, seeing time at first and second base in addition to third base. This scenario could come to fruition if the Angels acquire a full-time third baseman via trade or free agency, a possibility Minasian did not rule out. The Angels' internal infield options include players like Luis Rengifo, Scott Kingery, and Kevin Newman, who are all capable of handling the hot corner.