Recently, Los Angeles Angels Anthony Rendon was looking through his old emails, deleting some to save space on his computer.
That’s when he discovered a letter he sent to himself shortly after his debut season in 2014. There was a list of benefits and drawbacks for playing the game in that note. Something he penned at the age of twenty-four.
Not much has altered. The list of advantages and disadvantages has undoubtedly changed, but Rendon’s thinking on retiring has not.
He was extremely clear about one thing when he spoke with reporters on Monday after visiting the Angels camp.
Rendon stated, “It’s never been a top priority for me.” in reference to the game.
“This is a work assignment. This is what I do for a living. Before this work, my family and faith come first.
Rendon jokingly said, “Oh, it’s a priority for sure,” when questioned if it was a priority at all. since I work there.Yes, I am here, right?
Los Angeles Angels Rendon’s Media Relations
Los Angeles Angels Rendon, 33, has only appeared in 200 of the 546 games that he might have played with the Angels. Having suffered season-ending injuries midway through each of the previous three seasons, he hasn’t played in more than 58 games in a single season.
Before the 2020 season, he inked a seven-year, $245 million contract. Furthermore, he still has a deal that guarantees him over $115 million for the following three seasons.
As a result, the Angels find themselves in the unfortunate situation of having to deal with a player who isn’t entirely sure he wants to play for the team.
Rendon gave a direct response when asked if he wanted to be here.
Rendon said, “I don’t want to talk to you guys at seven in the morning, or whatever time it is.”
Rendon became irate as the next inquiry focused on his wish to be playing for the Angels.
“I’ve responded to your query,” he said. “So why do I continue to pick at it?”
Los Angeles Angels Rendon is a caustic person who seldom interacts with the media, so this is nothing new for him. As such, one should proceed with caution when interpreting his responses on Monday.
He stated that he is going into the spring with a strategy to try to get rid of injury difficulties, but he declined to disclose how many games he intends to play. After returning to full health in late November, he enjoyed a rather routine offseason.
“Yeah, we did devise a plan,” Rendon said. “I believe that will be a part of the first few weeks of spring. I believe that the first several weeks will reveal whether or not this is effective.
“I’ve been establishing objectives and expectations for the past few years.
I’m not sure if I’ve been self-jinxing or not. Really, all I’m doing is attempting to handle each day as it comes. I’ll be content if I can make it through one more day. At the conclusion of the year, we’ll assess our current situation.
In the end, Rendon made it apparent through his contentious remarks on priorities that he wants to be well and be of use. He also declared that, as a person who has been there and done that, he sees himself as a team leader.
However, he also acknowledges that his public remarks and lack of on-field performance have given rise to a certain reputation among the fan base.
For instance, he had a shin injury in July of last season, turned down interviews for two months, and later said the Los Angeles Angels’ medical staff misread his injury as a bruise rather than a fractured tibia. That occurred months after he was banned for grabbing an Oakland A’s fan in the bleachers during the season’s opening game.
Nonetheless, he asserted that it is not worth worrying about what other people think of him.
Rendon replied, “They don’t know who I am.” They are simply aware of the region on the surface. I take it they’re fans? They may be aware of my six feet and 190 pounds, but they have no idea about my personal identity.
“Barry Bonds is still hated by many despite being possibly the best player to ever play this game. You are unable to satisfy everyone. If you do or if you don’t, you will be doomed. I’m not interested in having surgery. Do you really believe that I enjoy getting cut open and spending most of my time in pain? I can’t go get my kids. I am unable to walk. Do you suppose I find that enjoyable? That’s not what I want to do.
3 Responses
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