Angels Near Buyout of Anthony Rendon’s $245M Contract

UPDATE: The Los Angeles Angels are reportedly finalizing a buyout agreement with third baseman Anthony Rendon, signaling an end to the oft-injured player’s tumultuous tenure just one year before the conclusion of his $245 million contract. This urgent news was first reported by Alden Gonzalez of ESPN.

Rendon, who is set to make $38 million in 2026, has played only 256 games in the first six years of his seven-year deal, missing the entire previous season due to hip surgery. The Angels have clearly shifted their focus to moving forward without him, as general manager Perry Minasian stated that securing an everyday third baseman is a top priority for the offseason.

This potential buyout not only alleviates the Angels’ financial burden but also opens up a crucial spot on the 40-man roster during the winter months. While the Major League Baseball Players’ Association prohibits players from returning contract value, Rendon may opt to defer some payments, effectively freeing up salary space for the Angels in the short term.

Rendon, now 35, initially joined the Angels in December 2019 and made a strong impact during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, finishing 10th in MVP voting. However, injuries have plagued his career since, and he did not participate in spring training this year as he prepared for surgery.

The situation mirrors that of right-hander Stephen Strasburg, who reached a similar agreement with the Washington Nationals in 2024, ending his injury-riddled career prematurely. Both players are represented by agent Scott Boras, raising questions about the future of high-profile contracts in Major League Baseball.

As developments unfold, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how this decision will reshape the Angels’ roster and their 2026 plans. Stay tuned for more breaking news on this significant change.