The Los Angeles Angels have made a significant move by agreeing to a one-year contract worth $5 million with third baseman Yoán Moncada, according to a source familiar with the situation. The announcement is pending and the deal will become official only after Moncada successfully passes a physical examination.
Moncada, who played for the Chicago White Sox for the last eight seasons, was initially traded to the Sox after his major league debut with the Boston Red Sox in 2016. Over his career, he has maintained a batting average of .254, accumulating 93 home runs and 339 runs batted in.
Last season was particularly challenging for Moncada as he suffered a strain to his adductor muscle in April, causing him to miss a significant portion of the games. He managed to make only one more appearance in the season, during which he struck out in a critical moment, ultimately concluding the 13th inning of a game against the Angels on September 18.
Injuries have been an ongoing issue for Moncada, who has been sidelined for at least 58 games in each of the last four seasons. This scenario is reminiscent for the Angels, who have struggled with injuries to their third baseman, Anthony Rendon. Despite a hefty $245 million contract, Rendon has not played more than 58 games in any of his first five seasons with the Angels, primarily due to various injuries.
The addition of Moncada offers the Angels the flexibility to adjust Rendon’s role during spring training sessions scheduled for this month in Tempe, Arizona. Rendon has two remaining years on a frustrating contract.
Defensively, Moncada is expected to contribute significantly at third base. He will receive guidance from manager Ron Washington, who is known for his expertise in infield defense, alongside infield coach Ryan Goins, a former teammate of Moncada’s from his time with the White Sox. Additionally, Moncada shared the field with Tim Anderson, another former teammate who is currently attempting to make a return to the majors after signing a minor league contract with the Angels.
