Angels Have Shown Interest in All-Star Free Agent Third Baseman: Report
Los Angeles Angels third baseman Anthony Rendon has made it clear that his job isn't a top priority for him. And according to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the Angels have reportedly shown interest in free agent Matt Chapman.
What a response from the Angels' front office. They just have to open up their checkbook next.
When Rendon signed a seven-year, $245 million contract after winning a World Series with the Washington Nationals, he was expected to contribute to his new team in the same way.
He hasn't.
According to FanGraphs, he was worth 18.6 wins above replacement in his last three seasons with the Nationals. Since arriving in Los Angeles, he has been worth 3.6 in four years combined.
In 2018, Rendon told The Washington Post that he loves baseball. When he arrived at camp this year, he told reporters that it had never been a priority for him.
Manager Ron Washington has already made it clear that he wants his veterans to set a good example in the clubhouse and on the field. He has bragged about Mike Trout's baserunning, and the team set an example by releasing veteran catcher Francisco Mejia after a short stay.
Bringing in Chapman would give the Angels a dependable everyday third baseman; Rendon can become a designated hitter. He can shift his focus to one thing instead of trying to juggle a full workload for at least 60 games -something he hasn't done since becoming an Angel.
The pros outweigh the cons when it comes to the Angels signing Chapman. He plays at least 140 games a year and is the reigning AL Gold Glove winner at third base. He has won four in his career and two Platinum Gloves.
If the Angels decide not to sign Chapman, who would cost a pretty penny, their next-best option is to start Luis Rengifo at third. At this point, it makes less sense for them to depend on the injury-plagued Rendon.
After all, Rendon still hasn't answered this question from the first day of camp: “Do you want to be here?"
