The Los Angeles Angels have made it clear that Anthony Rendon’s future with the team is uncertain. He will either need to reclaim his starting role or be replaced.
There has been widespread speculation that Rendon won’t be the Angels’ starting third baseman next season, with one potential replacement emerging: Nolan Arenado.
The St. Louis Cardinals are actively shopping Arenado this winter, and the Angels could be a possible landing spot. Arenado has listed six teams he’d be willing to join, with the Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Diego Padres among his top choices. General manager Perry Minasian stated that the Angels are not difficult to sell to players, aligning with Arenado’s preferred trade destinations.
“I don’t think our place is a tough sell,” Minasian said, as reported by Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register. “You’d be surprised how many people want to play here. It’s a great place to play, live, and spend the season. It’s perfect for families, has a great ballpark, a passionate fan base — it’s not just a good place, it’s a great place to play.”
Arenado, who grew up in the Orange County area, has a strong connection to the West Coast. While the remaining money on his contract could complicate the deal, it’s likely he would approve a trade to the Angels.
Although Arenado is 34, many of the Angels’ recent acquisitions, such as Yusei Kikuchi, Jorge Soler, Kyle Hendricks, Travis d’Arnaud, and Kevin Newman, are also in their 30s. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Arenado join the Angels next season.
Among the teams on Arenado’s wish list, the Angels have the greatest need for a third baseman, as the Dodgers have Max Muncy and the Padres have Manny Machado. However, Arenado has expressed a willingness to play either corner infield position next season. If the Padres part ways with Luis Arraez, Arenado could fit in San Diego, though it’s uncertain if the Padres would be willing to commit to such a high cost for him.
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