The Los Angeles Angels and third baseman Anthony Rendon are in talks about a buyout. With one year and $38 million left on his seven-year, $245 million contract, the discussions come as Rendon appears to be nearing retirement.
Rendon’s contract has long been a point of contention. Many view it as one of the biggest flops in recent baseball history. During his first season with the Angels in 2020, he performed well, participating in 52 out of 60 games. That year, he boasted a .286 batting average and hit nine home runs. However, injuries have plagued him since then. Over the next few seasons, he could only play between 43 and 58 games per year.
Rendon’s injury issues have been extensive. He faced numerous problems, including a left groin strain and hip impingement, which lingered over multiple seasons. After undergoing hip surgery in February 2025, he missed the entire season. On the field, he struggled, accumulating a batting average of just .231 and an on-base percentage of .329.
In addition to injuries, Rendon has gained attention for his controversial comments about baseball. He’s previously stated that he finds the game “boring,” which hasn’t gone over well with fans. He has also faced suspensions for off-field incidents, raising questions about his commitment to the sport. Fans have expressed their frustration on social media, often criticizing his attitude and lack of availability.
The Angels’ struggles haven’t ended with Rendon’s contract, as much of their payroll has been tied up in him. Despite having star players like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, the Angels haven’t been contenders in recent years.
Should a buyout be finalized, it could benefit both parties. Rendon could leave the sport without the pressure of rehabilitation, while the Angels could gain financial flexibility for future acquisitions. As of now, they have a projected payroll of $166 million, with nearly a quarter of that amount allocated to Rendon alone.
So, what’s next for Rendon? If he does not step onto a major league field again, he will retire with impressive stats: 1,218 hits, a .276 batting average, and nearly 34 wins above replacement (WAR) over his career. Fans and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on the unfolding situation.
For reference, you can read more about the Angels’ payroll details on RosterResource.
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