Ron Washington Is Adamant on Proving Credentials Amid Top Talent Inclusion on Lengthy Injury List

Over the weekend, the Los Angeles Angels secured a series victory with a revamped lineup, as manager Ron Washington had to make adjustments following Luis Rengifo’s latest stint on the injured list.

With the infielder out, Washington promoted shortstop Zach Neto to the leadoff position for the series against the New York Mets. After Rengifo batted behind leadoff hitter Nolan Schanuel in Friday’s opener, Neto took over that spot for Saturday and Sunday.

As for Anthony Rendon’s return, who has been the Angels’ leadoff hitter for much of the season when healthy, he won’t be at the top of the batting order upon his activation from the injured list later this week. Rendon, recovering from a back injury sustained at the end of last month, is expected to play again on Tuesday against the New York Yankees, but Washington plans to slot him at No. 6 in the lineup.

While many Angels fans might prefer to see Rendon sit out the rest of the 2024 season—given his struggles since signing a $ 245 million contract in 2020—it’s challenging to bench a player who accounts for nearly 20% of the team’s payroll.

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By moving Rendon down in the batting order, Washington and the Angels’ management might be indicating a shift in strategy. Slotting Schanuel, Neto, and Logan O’Hoppe at the top of the lineup allows the team’s young core to maximize their at-bats in the final months of the season. The reality is that any future hope for Angels fans rests with this promising trio, rather than with Rendon.

So, as Rendon returns from the injured list this week, don’t expect significant changes to Washington’s lineup card. Considering Rendon’s history, it would be wise for Washington to use a pencil when reinserting the third baseman. To say Rendon’s durability is uncertain would be an understatement.