The Los Angeles Angels thought they had a plan. After years of instability at the team’s third base, the Angels finally identified a stopgap outcome in place. Anthony Rendon’s injuries had become expected, so the Los Angeles Angels identified the gap. When the team signed Yoán Moncada, it looked like a vital move. The thought was simple: Yoán Moncada would fill the gap until Rendon recovered. However, just as spring training begins, that plan is already falling apart.

Instead of a fresh beginning, the team is stuck in a familiar cycle, another high-paid third baseman sidelined and another last-minute management needed. With Yoán Moncada already dealing with health issues, Los Angeles Angels are once again scrambling. Will 2025 be any different? Is the team doomed to repeat history?

The 29-year-old star has not played more than 100 games since 2022. In addition, Moncada was limited to just 12 games in 2024 because of an adductor strain. Moncada’s offensive performance has also decreased, with a .236/.291/.387 slash line over his past three seasons.

It is only too reminiscent of Rendon, who, since signing a seven-year, $245 million contract in 2020 with LA, has participated in just 257 games out of 648 and missed almost 60 percent the time. Anthony Rendon’s offensive performance has also decreased, with a mixed batting average of .235 as well as just 14 home runs over the last three years.

The current setback—a left hip surgery declared in February 2025—adds to Anthony Rendon’s history of health issues, containing an old right hip surgery in July 2022. Such a continuous unavailability, mixed with his $38 million yearly salary, has left the Los Angeles Angels in an intricate situation.

To manage the issue, the Los Angeles Angels got Yoán Moncada to a one-year, $5 million deal. However, his durability remains an issue. Now, before stepping on the Los Angeles Angels ground, Moncada is already behind schedule in spring training because of soreness. This situation is clouding Yoyo’s role as Anthony Rendon’s replacement.

Is it a repeat of 2024?

The Los Angeles Angels’ 72-90 finish in 2024 was largely because of injuries, roster mismanagement, as well as a lack of depth. Such issues still remain unresolved in 2025. ESPN’s Buster Olney largely criticized the Angels’ approach, saying that the team is “trapped in mediocrity” because of years of poor decision-making under Arte Moreno.

With Anthony Rendon sidelined and Moncada already facing issues, the third-base intricacy mirrors last season’s instability. If the team fails to manage their infield depth, the Los Angeles Angels risk another year of scrambling for answers. Whether the team relies on internal depth, adopts a veteran experience and analyzes trade options, a quick approach is necessary to avoid another wasted season.

Internally, Luis Rengifo has experience at third base, however, is better suited for a utility role. In addition, Miguel Sanó, signed to a minor-league with the team, provides power but lacks consistency. Free agency provides options like Andrew Heaney as well as 36-year-old José Quintana. They could provide much-needed pitching depth. In addition, a trade could be done as well as one intriguing name is Vladimir Guerrero Jr. He could be available in 2026 if the Jays decide to retool.

Will the Angels take action? Are they ready to gamble on Yoán Moncada’s health? With spring training in full swing, the clock is ticking. The team cannot afford another season of instability at third base. A decision needs to be made quickly. Otherwise, 2025 could be another frustrating year for the team’s fans.