The Los Angeles Angels have made headlines this offseason by signing free agent third baseman Yoan Moncada to a one-year, $5 million deal, marking a significant turning point for the team heading into the 2025 season. This acquisition was first reported by The New York Post and confirms the Angels’ intent to solidify their roster after a tumultuous period marred by underperformance and injuries, particularly concerning other high-profile players like Anthony Rendon.
Moncada’s addition tackles not only the need for consistency at third base but also shifts the trajectory of what the Angels can expect from Rendon, who has struggled to live up to the astronomical expectations set upon him when he signed a seven-year contract valued at $245 million. The stark contrast between Moncada’s potential and Rendon’s recent past adds intrigue to the Angels’ lineup, signaling a possible reshuffling of roles as they prepare for what promises to be a competitive season.
Rendon has become an increasingly perplexing figure for the Angels organization. Over the last four seasons, he has appeared in less than a third of the team’s games, posting an underwhelming .666 OPS. General manager Perry Minasian has openly acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Rendon’s health and performance prospects moving forward. With Moncada now in the fold, the Angels may be forced to reevaluate how they utilize the veteran player.
Moncada’s primary position at third base means that Rendon, aside from filling in on occasion, might find himself relegated to a bench role. His age—heading into his 35th year—combined with a lengthy injury history that includes oblique, lower back, and knee issues raises questions about the long-term viability of his impact on the team. As such, the Angels not only have to ponder how to manage Rendon’s playing time, but also how to optimize their lineup for upcoming challenges.
While the Angels are clearly banking on a resurgence from Moncada, his recent history raises eyebrows. Once considered a prized prospect in the Boston Red Sox organization, Moncada displayed flashes of brilliance, particularly in a strong 2021 season with the Chicago White Sox. However, his production has regressed, achieving only a lackluster .236 batting average with a .291 on-base percentage over the last three seasons.
The 2022 season proved especially troublesome, as Moncada managed merely 12 appearances, largely due to an adductor strain that sidelined him for five months. Subsequently, the White Sox opted to decline his $25 million option, making him a free agent. Now, with a fresh start with the Angels, Moncada not only has a lot to prove to himself but also to an organization that hopes to welcome steady performance in an otherwise injury-riddled lineup.
The Moncada signing reflects a shift in strategy for the Angels, who appear to be preparing for contingencies related to Rendon’s unpredictable health status. Moncada’s versatility as a switch-hitter provides the team with much-needed flexibility. In addition to third base, he can step in at first base when facing tough left-handed pitchers, further carving out his role within the team.
Moreover, this acquisition is a critical cog in what is shaping up to be a bold offseason for the Angels, which also includes bolstering their lineup with corner outfielder Jorge Soler and bolstering their pitching staff with Yusei Kikuchi. Such moves signify that the organization is both aware of its current shortcomings and eager to rectify them.
While the addition of Yoan Moncada to the Angels’ roster raises hopes for a revitalized lineup, it also poses significant questions regarding Anthony Rendon’s role moving forward. With uncertainty hanging over Rendon, the Angels must navigate these challenges wisely, aiming for a seamless integration of Moncada while planning for potential pitfalls that lie ahead in the 2025 season.