The Los Angeles Angels haven’t shied away from digging deep into their pockets before. But this off-season, though there’s a dire need for pitching, they are reluctant t0 spend. Now, this strange silence hints at frugality. The reason? Look no further than the “Tony Two-Bags” haunting their monetary decisions.

Anthony Rendon, a spectral figure had a dreamy 2019 season. He smashed doubles, topped the league in walks, and rode the Washington Nationals to clinch the Commissioner’s Trophy. Smitten by his grandeur, the Angels offered him a $245 million contract spread over 7 years. All was well until it suddenly was not. 

The Anthony Rendon Gloom Looms Over the Los Angeles Angels

After payday, the 33-year-old became a shadow of his past self. Injury tainted his relationship with the Halos. While he could not keep himself healthy, his average plummeted, and hitting double-digit dingers was nothing but a castle in the air. The Angels’ agony stings them to this day as they were left holding a $35 million-a-year bag. An irreversible mistake that they made in 2019. 

Entering the 2024 spring training, they carry a similar fear with Blake Snell and Cody Bellinger. These names are super attractive, but what if history were to repeat itself? One can say, that the Rendon ghost looms large. To add to their inhibitions, these pitchers are seeking hefty contracts. There are whispers of north of $200 million for Snell and Bellinger. Their talent is undeniable on the one hand. But on the other, it’s understandable that the Angels are wary of another ‘walk-year wonder turning into a financial burden.

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There is no doubt that they need pitching. However, the horror of another Rendon-esque gloom is real. While Snell, Bellinger, and even Jordan Montgomery are hot free agents, placing a big bet and welcoming them to Anaheim might not happen anytime soon. But will playing cautious get them too far? 

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They’re making smaller moves in Anaheim, more like patchwork rather than swinging for the fences. Sure, this is not the aggressive momentum that fans crave, but it’s still a strategy; one that stems from their bitter lessons.

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That said, there are some key questions that need to be answered. Can they compete in 2024 without a big splash? For how long will the ghost of Rendon continue to hold their horses? Well, one can only wait and watch. But one thing’s clear – the Halos are determined not to repeat their mistakes and they continue to do so on eggshells.