The Los Angeles Angels have re-signed Moncada to a one-year deal to strengthen their third base position.

MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reports that the Los Angeles Angels have reached a one-year, $4 million agreement with third baseman Yoán Moncada, who will remain the Angels’ third baseman for the 2026 season. The contract awaits completion of his physical before becoming official.

Moncada joined the Angels last season on a one-year, $5 million contract, appearing in 84 games with a slash line of .234/.336/.448, hitting 12 home runs and 13 doubles while driving in 35 runs. He primarily played third base (76 games) but was hampered by a right thumb sprain and right knee inflammation, the latter affecting his performance from June onward.

With Anthony Rendon expected to miss his second consecutive year due to hip surgery, the Angels urgently needed to reinforce their third base. The team restructured the final year of Rendon’s contract to free up short-term payroll space and plans to place him on the 60-day injured list before the season starts, opening a spot on the 40-man roster.

Moncada is projected to be the Angels’ primary third baseman next season, but the former top prospect must prove his health. Between 2022 and 2025, he played in 104, 92, 12, and 84 games respectively. Over his ten major league seasons with the Red Sox, White Sox, and Angels, he has compiled a career slash line of .252/.332/.426.

Moncada will join an infield led by shortstop Zach Neto and first baseman Nolan Schanuel. Although Christian Moore is a leading candidate to start at second base, he still must compete for the role during spring training. Utility player Oswald Peraza and former top-100 prospect Vaughn Grissom, acquired via trade from the Red Sox, will also be part of the infield rotation. Additionally, Angels’ No. 8 prospect Denzer Guzman served as a third baseman late last season.

The Angels are still seeking to bolster their pitching staff, particularly the starting rotation. While they have added outfielder Josh Lowe from the Rays via trade, the team may continue to enhance depth in the outfield as well.