The Los Angeles Angels have received a much-needed boost with the activation of star third baseman Anthony Rendon from the 10-day injured list. Rendon, who has been sidelined for 69 games due to a hamstring injury, is set to rejoin the lineup and provide a spark as the Angels look to make a second-half surge in the American League West.
Veteran Slugger Poised to Ignite Angels' Offense
Rendon's Injury Woes and Anticipated Impact
Anthony Rendon, the Angels' prized offseason acquisition in 2019, has been plagued by a string of injuries over the past four seasons, limiting his playing time and production. Since the start of the 2021 season, Rendon has appeared in only 167 games, missing a staggering 408 games due to various ailments. His latest setback, a strained left hamstring, has kept him sidelined for the majority of the current campaign.However, Rendon's return to the lineup is expected to provide a significant boost to the Angels' offense. The 33-year-old veteran has a career batting average of .287 and has consistently been a productive hitter, with the ability to drive in runs and get on base at a high clip. His presence in the lineup, particularly in the leadoff spot, will be crucial in igniting the Angels' offense and helping the team make a push for the postseason.
Rendon's Reunion with Trout and Potential Lineup Versatility
The Angels' lineup has been missing a key piece with Rendon's absence, as he and three-time AL MVP Mike Trout have only been in the same lineup for 118 games out of a possible 575 since the start of the 2021 season. Trout, who is currently recovering from knee surgery, is expected to return to the lineup by late July, further bolstering the Angels' offensive firepower.Rendon's versatility will also be an asset for the Angels as they look to optimize their lineup. Manager Ron Washington has indicated that Rendon will alternate between third base and designated hitter until he feels comfortable playing the field on consecutive days. This flexibility will allow the Angels to manage Rendon's workload and ensure he remains healthy and productive throughout the second half of the season.
The Angels' Struggles and Rendon's Potential Impact
The Angels have had a disappointing first half of the season, dropping seven of their last eight games and falling 10.5 games behind the Seattle Mariners in the AL West. With Rendon's return, the team is hoping to turn things around and make a push for the playoffs.During Rendon's absence, the Angels have struggled to find consistent production from the leadoff spot, batting just .239, which ranks eighth-lowest in the majors. Rendon's presence at the top of the order is expected to provide a much-needed spark, as he has a career on-base percentage of .365 and the ability to set the tone for the rest of the lineup.As the Angels look to make a second-half surge, the return of Anthony Rendon could be the catalyst they need to ignite their offense and make a run at the postseason. With Rendon's proven track record of success and the potential for a reunited Trout-Rendon duo, the Angels' faithful are eagerly anticipating the impact their star third baseman can have on the team's fortunes.
