BREAKING: Los Angeles Angels reportedly interested in trading for future Hall of Famer, first-time All-Star to upgrade lineup
The Los Angeles Angels have been quite active this offseason, making a number of signings and trades in an effort to improve their roster. Notably, the team secured a three-year, $63 million deal with starter Yusei Kikuchi, a two-year, $12 million contract with catcher Travis d’Arnaud, and one-year deals with shortstop Kevin Newman and starter Kyle Hendricks. Additionally, the Angels traded for slugger Jorge Soler, adding more depth to their lineup.
While building around young talents like Logan O’Hoppe, Zach Neto, and Nolan Schanuel, the team is also trying to manage the large contracts of Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon. Rendon’s deal, a seven-year, $245 million contract, has not lived up to expectations, with the veteran infielder missing significant time due to injuries and producing just 22 home runs over five seasons.
Reports indicate that the Angels are pursuing trades to offload Rendon’s contract and are looking to add both a future Hall of Famer and a first-time All-Star as part of their efforts to reload and compete in 2025.
Los Angeles Angels reportedly interested in Nolan Arenado, Alec Bohm
According to Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register, the Los Angeles Angels have expressed interest in acquiring two third basemen this offseason: St. Louis Cardinals’ Nolan Arenado and Philadelphia Phillies’ Alec Bohm.
Arenado, who hails from the Anaheim area, has three years and $74 million left on his contract. However, at nearly 34 years old, his performance has been on the decline both offensively and defensively. While Arenado would approve a trade to the Angels, his agent has noted that the future Hall of Famer prefers to play for a contender. Given that the Angels haven’t made the playoffs since 2014, the fit may be questionable.
On the other hand, Bohm presents a more realistic target for the Angels. After making his first All-Star appearance in 2024, the 27-year-old is under team control through 2026 and is expected to earn around $8 million in 2025 through arbitration. However, the Phillies are reportedly asking for a significant return for their rising star. With the potential for an expanded market after free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman signs with a team, Bohm’s trade value could increase.
As of now, the Angels are facing a projected 2025 payroll of $191 million, adding a layer of complexity to any potential trades.
For more information on the Angels’ offseason moves and potential targets, check out additional reporting by Orange County Register.