Angels Reinstate Former All-Star

So much for "season-ending" wrist surgery. It happened back in June, and was thought to be the end of the 2022 season for Los Angeles Angels third baseman Anthony Rendon. But just a few weeks ago we reported that they were anxious to get him back in the lineup for a couple of reasons.  

Anthony Rendon looks like he’s beaten the odds and can return this season after having what was first termed “season ending” wrist surgery. One big advantage if he returns in the next couple days: he can serve his 5-game ban for leaving the bench while on IL and not affect 2023.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) September 28, 2022

When the former All-Star injured his wrist and went under the knife to repair it back in June, he was written off with a second consecutive season-ending injury. But both the team and Rendon were hoping he could return before the season was done. 

By activating him now, he gets to serve the five-game suspension he received—while in a cast—for his part in a bench-clearing incident with the Seattle Mariners back in June. 

Welcome back, Anthony Rendon #LAAngels #GoHalos pic.twitter.com/YhJvr5tIlX

— Angels Reddit (@angelsreddit) September 28, 2022

After the suspension is served, he'll get into the final three games of the season. He'l looking forward to swinging the bat for real, to give him some peace of mind going into the offseason. 

“(It's all about) trying to get that peace of mind,” Rendon explained. “Last year sucked, obviously (when hip surgery ended his season, and dragged on into the offseason). To be able to play going into the winter, knowing that I was 100% healthy going into the winter. Then I can have a complete normal offseason.”

Photos: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports, Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports