Angels' Anthony Rendon Expresses Baseball As A Job, Not Top Priority, Heading Into Spring Training

Photo: Instagram/Anthony Rendon

Los Angeles Angels' third baseman Anthony Rendon has candidly shared his perspective on baseball, asserting that it has never been a top priority for him as he heads into spring training. 

Despite playing a pivotal role in the Washington Nationals' World Series triumph before joining the Angels, Rendon views baseball as a means of making a living, emphasizing his commitment to faith and family.

In a recent statement to The Athletic, Rendon emphasized, “It’s never been a top priority for me. This is a job. I do this to make a living. My faith, my family come first before this job. So if those things come before it, I’m leaving.” These sentiments echo Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić's post-championship eagerness to return home.

Photo: Instagram/Anthony Rendon

Rendon, set to enter his fifth season with the Angels, signed a substantial seven-year, $245 million deal in 2019. However, his time with the team has been marred by various injuries, limiting his participation to just 200 out of a possible 546 games over the past four seasons.

Last season, Rendon played in only 43 games due to a shin injury and suspension, posting career-low numbers with 35 hits, 22 RBIs, and a .236 batting average. Despite acknowledging that baseball is a priority because it's his job, he remains resolute in placing personal priorities first.

Facing potential criticism, Rendon remains unfazed, stating, “They don’t know me. They only know the surface area there. They’re fans, right? You can’t make everybody happy. 

I don’t want to have surgeries. You think I enjoy that? I don’t want to do that.” As the Angels gear up for the new season, Rendon's candid reflections add a unique perspective to his approach to the game. (SOURCE: Yahoo Sports)

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