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Angels Announce Roster News Amid Bo Bichette Report
© John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Angels are entering the 2026 MLB season with a talented young core, hopeful to return to postseason contention.

The offseason has been an intriguing one for the Angels, as the team has added several players with high ceilings but also considerable risk. There are still options available in free agency that could help Los Angeles if ownership is willing to spend.

The Angels have been hesitant to hand out another massive contract since signing third baseman Anthony Rendon to a seven-year, $245 million deal — a move widely regarded as one of the worst in MLB history.

Over five seasons in Los Angeles, Rendon posted a .242 batting average, .348 on-base percentage and .717 OPS with 22 home runs and 125 RBIs across just 257 games, with injuries derailing much of his tenure.

Los Angeles Angels third baseman Anthony Rendon (6)© Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

On Wednesday, general manager Perry Minasian confirmed that the team has restructured Rendon’s contract, effectively ending his time on the field in 2026.

“We all know Anthony’s injury history, and it’s been tough for him to get on the field over the last five years. We ended up restructuring his deal. I’m not gonna get into the details of it, but he won’t be in spring training. He’ll be rehabbing at home. I don’t expect to see him during the season,” Minasian said, via ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez.

Minasian also acknowledged that third base is now a clear area of need for the front office to address this winter, according to Taylor Blake Ward of Baseball America.

With Rendon out of the picture, speculation has already begun about possible replacements.

Former MLB catcher and current analyst Eric Kratz suggested that former Toronto Blue Jays infielder Bo Bichette could be on the Angels’ radar. “The Angels are a sleeper team for Bo Bichette,” Kratz said on his podcast, Foul Territory.

Bichette would represent a major upgrade for Los Angeles, bringing an impressive track record as a two-time All-Star and one of the most consistent offensive performers in the league.

His 2025 season showcased his value, as he hit .311 with a .357 on-base percentage, .840 OPS, 44 doubles, 18 home runs and 94 RBIs.

Adding Bichette could help the Angels capitalize on the final productive years of Mike Trout while also providing postseason experience that would benefit the club’s young core. He has shown a willingness to move off shortstop, making him a natural fit at third base alongside Zach Neto.

With Rendon’s contract restructured, payroll flexibility has returned, making Bichette a higher-floor option to push the Angels closer to playoff contention.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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