Angels Consider Buyout as Anthony Rendon Nears Retirement

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Angels Consider Buyout as Anthony Rendon Nears Retirement

The Los Angeles Angels are currently in discussions to negotiate a buyout for third baseman Anthony Rendon, who is anticipated to retire soon. Reports from Alden González highlight that Rendon has one final year left on his seven-year, $245 million contract, which still has $38 million remaining. Unfortunately, Rendon’s tenure with the Angels has been underwhelming and is likely to be remembered as one of the most disappointing contracts in recent baseball history.

Rendon’s Performance and Injuries

Rendon initially flourished with the Washington Nationals, showcasing exceptional talent between 2013 and 2019 with a .290 batting average, .369 on-base percentage, and .490 slugging percentage. His remarkable 2019 season included a career-high of 34 home runs and a .319 batting average. He played a crucial role in helping the Nationals capture their first World Series title that year before signing with the Angels.

In his first season in Los Angeles during the shortened 2020 season, Rendon performed well, participating in 52 of 60 games and recording nine home runs with a .286 average, yet injuries have plagued him ever since. From 2021 to 2024, he faced multiple injuries, limiting his appearances to 43 to 58 games each season. His overall statistics during this period were disappointing, with a batting line of .231/.329/.336, accumulating just an 89 wRC+.

Injury History

Rendon’s injury struggles include:

Left groin strain
Left knee contusion
Left hamstring strain
Right hip impingement
Right wrist inflammation and surgery
Left wrist contusion
Left shin contusion
Low back inflammation
Left oblique strain

Most notably, in February 2025, he underwent left hip surgery, which sidelined him for the entire season.

Controversies Surrounding Rendon

Adding to his troubles, Rendon’s attitude and commitment have come under scrutiny. He has expressed disinterest in baseball on multiple occasions, including a statement in 2014 where he noted he found the game “too long and boring.” His involvement in several altercations, including a five-game suspension for a brawl and another incident with a fan in 2023, has further fueled criticism.

Rendon stated in January 2024 that baseball is not a top priority for him, emphasizing that family and faith come first. This has not sat well with fans and media alike, leading to ongoing discussions about his future with the franchise.

Looking Ahead

The Angels, who also feature superstars like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, have struggled to be competitive despite their high-profile roster. With Rendon making almost a quarter of their $166 million payroll, a buyout could provide the Angels with the financial flexibility to improve their lineup and pitching staff for the 2026 season.

If a buyout occurs, it could mark the end of Rendon’s tumultuous run in Major League Baseball. Should he retire without playing another game, he will conclude his career with notable statistics over 1,173 games, including: