LA Angels: In-Depth Breakdown of Newest Superstar Anthony Rendon

The LA Angels biggest signing this offseason might not have been who we fans originally wanted, but Anthony Rendon brings a different aspect to the Halos.

While we’re all excited about the LA Angels newest superstar, what do we know about Anthony Rendon’s game? Here, we’ll break down every part of the All Star’s abilities on the diamond.

Batting

This is what Rendon is known for. A true combination of both power and contact, Rendon is already the best hitter Mike Trout has been teammates with. In terms of wRC+, Rendon was considered an elite hitter in 2019, ranking seventh in the entire MLB. He was the second rated third baseman as well, just behind AL MVP runner up Alex Bregman.

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On top of that, if you believe in having a “clutch gene” then Rendon certainly has it. His home run off of Clayton Kershaw in Game 5 of the NLDS was as good a piece of hitting as I’ve seen, and he also delivered the home run to start the Nationals’ comeback over Houston in Game 7 of the World Series. Rendon knows how to deliver when his team needs a big hit, undoubtedly.

Fielding

Another plus part of Rendon’s game is his glove at third base. While he’s not in the same tier as Matt Chapman and Nolan Arenado, Rendon’s defensive abilities at third base are elite. His instincts at third base are some of the best I’ve seen in the current MLB. Him and Andrelton Simmons playing alongside each other is going to be a lot of fun to watch for Halo fans.

Base running

This is Rendon’s worst part of his game, and it’s not even a negative. He isn’t a huge threat to steal bases (45 in his seven year career), but he is a smart, capable base runner. At least for the first few years of his contract, Rendon will be a consistent doubles machine. He’s led the National League the past two seasons with 44 in each year, and will continue to be an extra-base hit machine in Anaheim.

Durability

Aside from a knee injury suffered during Spring Training in 2015, Rendon has been relatively durable throughout his career. He isn’t the type of player that’s going to give you 162 games year in and year out. However, relying on him to stay healthy is something the Angels and their fans can do. If he misses time, it’ll be similar to the Mike Trout treatment where it’s usually for precautionary reasons.

All in all, the minute Anthony Rendon was formals announced at Angels Stadium, he became the best player Mike Trout has had on his team thus far in his career. He is an all-around elite player, and enhances the Angels in every part of the game.