Anthony Rendon’s Health Struggles Continue
Los Angeles Angels general manager Perry Minasian announced on Wednesday that Anthony Rendon will undergo hip surgery and is expected to be out "long-term." The 34-year-old third baseman has been plagued by injuries throughout his tenure with the Angels, culminating in a frustrating 2024 season. Rendon played just 57 games last year, batting an underwhelming .218 with zero home runs and 14 RBIs. His frequent stints on the injured list, including issues with his hamstring, back, and oblique, have significantly hampered his ability to contribute to the team.
A Contract Looming Over His Career
Rendon joined the Angels in 2019 after signing a seven-year, $245 million contract, a move that was highly anticipated and filled with expectations. However, his time in Anaheim has been marred by recurrent injuries. Since 2020, Rendon has not played more than 58 games in a single season. Over the past five seasons, he has only suited up for a total of 257 games, a stark contrast to the consistent performance he exhibited during his time with the Washington Nationals. The contractual obligations and the fans’ expectations have only added to the pressure on Rendon, making his injury woes all the more disheartening for the team and its supporters.
A Controversial Statement and Fan Backlash
Adding to the frustration, Rendon’s candid remarks last year further fueled the discontent among Angels fans. He stated that baseball has "never been a top priority for me," a comment that did little to endear him to the loyal fanbase. This statement came at a time when the team was already grappling with Rendon’s frequent absences and lackluster performance, leading to a significant drop in morale. The fans, who had pinned their hopes on Rendon’s leadership and consistency, felt betrayed by his lack of commitment, further straining the relationship between the player and the community.
Yoán Moncada Steps Up to the Plate
In an effort to address the void left by Rendon’s extended absence, the Angels signed Yoán Moncada to a one-year, $5 million deal last week. Moncada, a 29-year-old third baseman, brings a wealth of experience to the team after eight seasons with the Chicago White Sox. Although he played only 12 games in 2024 due to a strained adductor, which caused him to miss most of the season, the Angels are hopeful that he can provide a stabilizing presence on the field. Moncada’s signing is a strategic move by the front office to mitigate the impact of Rendon’s injury and keep the team competitive.
Moncada’s Journey and Potential
Moncada’s career with the White Sox has been marked by both promise and setbacks. His ability to hit for both power and average, along with his defensive skills, made him a valuable asset to the White Sox. However, his 2024 season was cut short by the adductor injury, and he will need to prove his fitness and form to solidify his position with the Angels. The Angels’ management is confident that Moncada can step into Rendon’s shoes and provide the team with the necessary production at third base. His track record and potential make him a strong candidate to fill the gap left by Rendon’s injury.
Looking Forward with Resilience
Despite the challenges posed by Rendon’s extended absence, the Angels remain focused on the future. The team’s front office is committed to building a competitive roster and addressing the immediate needs, as evidenced by the signing of Moncada. While Rendon’s surgery and recovery will be a long and intensive process, the Angels are optimistic about the team’s resilience and the potential for a strong 2025 season. The fans, while disappointed, are also looking to the future with hope, supporting the new faces and the team’s efforts to bounce back from the setbacks.
