The Los Angeles Angels have faced challenging times, particularly following the departure of superstar Shohei Ohtani, who signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. This transition has been coupled with the underwhelming performance of Anthony Rendon, a contract that has become one of the league’s most notorious burdens. As the Angels look to move forward, the focus remains on how this high-profile signing turned into a significant liability.
The Legacy of the Rendon Signing
In 2019, the Los Angeles Angels signed third baseman Anthony Rendon to a seven-year, $245 million contract in hopes of building a powerhouse lineup around Ohtani. At the time, the move seemed prudent; Rendon had just clinched a championship with the Washington Nationals and was recognized for both his batting and defensive skills, having earned All-Star and All-MLB First Team honors. The Angels envisioned a formidable batting duo, but unfortunately, that ambition never materialized.
The aftermath of this signing has been disappointing. Ohtani moved to the Dodgers, where he contributed to consecutive World Series victories, while Rendon has been sidelined, missing 75% of the Angels’ games since joining the team. Now, he remains on the roster, set to be the highest-paid third baseman in Major League Baseball in the upcoming season.
The Financial Implications
The $245 million investment in Rendon came with an average annual value of $35 million, fully guaranteed. It included a no-trade clause, no opt-outs, and no performance bonuses, aiming to anchor the franchise economic strategy through the prime years of both players. However, Rendon’s performance quickly deteriorated into one of baseball’s most regrettable financial decisions.
During the condensed 2020 season, Rendon played well, participating in 52 games and demonstrating his capability. Unfortunately, the subsequent seasons tell a different story. Between 2021 and 2025, the Angels played 810 games, but Rendon could only manage 205 appearances. He was plagued by various injuries, including groin and hamstring strains, hip impingements, and even a fractured tibia, leading to him missing an entire season without taking a single plate appearance.
During this five-year window, the Angels have paid Rendon around $152 million, in exchange for a limited contribution of just over 200 games and a disappointing OPS of .666. This translates to more than $740,000 per game played, which further highlights his minimal on-field value compared to his substantial salary.
A Stark Contrast to Peers
In the context of salary, Rendon’s compensation surpasses that of other high-performing third basemen like Nolan Arenado and Manny Machado, who have consistently driven their teams forward and participated fully in their seasons. In stark contrast, Rendon has fallen short of expectations, with a .666 OPS well below the league average. In 2025 alone, 136 players achieved a better OPS.
The contract’s lack of insurance worsens the situation, as missed games have a direct financial impact on the organization rather than being cushioned by insurance typically associated with lengthy, high-value agreements.
Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale
As Rendon approaches the final year of his contract, expected to earn $38.6 million, he stands as a cautionary figure in baseball circles. The Angels will finally see the end of this costly chapter, but unless he makes a miraculous recovery, Rendon’s tenure will be remembered as one of the most significant misjudgments in modern MLB history.
Meet William, a proud Bethel University alumnus with a fervent passion for lifestyle and culture topics. His keen interest doesn’t stop there; he’s also deeply engrossed in current events of all kinds. William dedicates himself wholeheartedly to this site, thriving on the collaborative energy he shares with Suzanne, his long-standing partner in crime.
Having navigated their university courses side by side for years, their teamwork on the site is nothing short of dynamic. Together, they bring a unique blend of insights, proving that two heads are indeed better than one in delivering compelling content.
