MLB: Why did Los Angeles Angel’s Anthony Rendon get suspended for four games?
Though he won an appeal, the Los Angeles Angels’ third-baseman will still have to see out his suspension after a less than ideal situation involving a fan.
While it’s fair to say that the relationship between fans and players isn’t always the best, there are most definitely lines that shouldn’t be crossed, and the Angels’ star appears to have done just that. With his suspension now underway, one has to ask whether a lesson was learned and if so, by whom?
Angels’ Anthony Rendon suspended for four games
According to reports, Los Angeles Angels third baseman, Anthony Rendon, has begun serving his four-game suspension as evidenced by his absence from the team’s game on Monday night. Rendon’s punishment follows his involvement in an altercation with a fan, which occurred on Opening Day of the 2023 MLB regular season. Interestingly, the commissioner’s office initially announced that Rendon would serve a five-game suspension along with an undisclosed fine, however, the 32-year-old later won an appeal to see length of suspension reduced.
What exactly did Anthony Rendon do?
Regarding what actually happened on the field, the incident occurred after Rendon and the Angels were defeated by the Oakland Athletics. A video that was alter shared on social media - see below - appeared to show Rendon grabbing a fan’s clothing while accusing the fan of using derogatory language towards him. Rendon can then be seen taking a swipe at the fan in question before entering the clubhouse. It’s worth noting that subsequent to MLB’s official investigation into the confrontation, Rendon himself disclosed that he and the fan had in fact spoken and exchanged apologies.
*be avised the following video contains inappropriate language*
A look at Anthony Rendon
When it comes to the former Nationals star, it’s got to be said that he’s a bit of a mixed bag. Having joined the Angles after the 2019 season via a $245-million free-agent contract, big things were expected of Rendon, a player who many believe to be All-Star worthy, yet it’s got to be said that his availability, or lack thereof, quickly dashed any hopes about what he could produce. Truth be told, injuries have had a major impact on his time with the Angels since his move. Where numbers are concerned, he’s posted 94 OPS+ in 107 combined games including the two that he’s played so far in this season. As for his contract, it’s worth noting that Rendon still has three remaining seasons and almost $120 million left on his deal. For their part, the Angels are 3-1 on the campaign so far and currently in the middle of a series against the Seattle Mariners.