The Angels’ seven-year, $245 million contract with third baseman has not unfolded as they had hoped. While He delivered an outstanding debut season in Anaheim during the shortened 2020 campaign, the subsequent four seasons have been plagued by injuries and underperformance. Over that span, He has appeared in just 205 games with 863 plate appearances, producing a disappointing .231/.329/.336 slash line (89 wRC+).
With two years and $77 million remaining on his contract, it might seem the Angels would stick with Rendon as a regular part of their lineup. However, comments from GM Perry Minasian suggest the team 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, per MLB.com’s Rhett Bollinger. “Obviously, a healthy Anthony Rendon makes us a lot better. But with the last four years being what they’ve been, we need to see what else is out there.”
According to Bollinger, He will enter Spring Training 2025 “competing for a roster spot.” Minasian even floated the idea of Rendon transitioning to a part-time utility role, seeing time at first and second base along with third. This shift would likely happen if the Angels acquired a full-time third baseman through free agency or trade, which Minasian did not rule out. The Angels could also turn to internal options, including Luis Rengifo, Scott Kingery, and Kevin Newman, to fill the position.
While moving on from Rendon as the everyday third baseman would be financially significant, it’s understandable given his recent struggles. This offseason offers some intriguing infield options for the Angels to strengthen their lineup.
Although a major signing like Alex Bregman seems improbable due to Rendon’s contract, other free agents, including Josh Rojas, Donovan Solano, Yoan Moncada, and Paul DeJong, could be in play. On the trade market, names like Nolan Arenado, Alec Bohm, and Brett Baty could also be considered, though Arenado’s hefty contract presents challenges similar to pursuing Bregman.
DeJong stands out as a potential fit, especially given uncertainty surrounding shortstop Zach Neto’s availability for Opening Day following shoulder surgery. DeJong’s ability to cover shortstop early and shift to third later makes him a flexible option. Alternatively, the Angels could leverage Rengifo’s versatility to target a second baseman instead. Free agents such as Gleyber Torres (likely pricey), Jorge Polanco, Jose Iglesias, Amed Rosario, and Whit Merrifield are possibilities, with Iglesias and Rosario offering added value as shortstop-capable players.
As for the outfield, Bollinger notes the Angels are focused on maintaining flexibility for Mike Trout, who is expected to return from injury. Whether Trout remains a center fielder or shifts more to the corners and DH, the team feels confident in their depth, which includes Jo Adell, Mickey Moniak, and Taylor Ward. With Jorge Soler set to handle most DH duties after being acquired from the Braves, Trout could still see occasional time at DH or in a corner outfield role. Overall, any offensive additions this winter are more likely to come from the infield than the outfield.
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