MLB Investigating Heated Encounter Between Anthony Rendon, Athletics Fan
Angels star Anthony Rendon has found himself at the center of an early-season controversy following a heated exchange with an Athletics fan following L.A.’s 2–1 Opening Day loss in Oakland.
MLB announced Friday it has an opened an investigation into the incident after video circulated online showing Rendon, 32, getting in a postgame altercation with a fan standing in a section near the A’s dugout.
“We are aware of the video and we are now looking into the matter,” an MLB spokesperson said in a statement, via The Athletic’s Sam Blum.
In the brief clip, Rendon is seen grabbing an A’s fan by their shirt collar after they allegedly made an inappropriate remark to the 10-year veteran in an exchange that occurred off camera.
“What’d you say? You called me a b----, huh. Yeah you did,” Rendon said as the fan shook their head and claimed they didn’t make the remark. “Yeah you did. Yeah motherf----.” Shortly after releasing his grip, Rendon then took a swipe at the fan’s hat but did not make contact.
As of Friday, the Angels did not issue a statement on the video. It is also unclear at this time if Rendon will face discipline from the league for the heated moment.
Video shows Angels 3B Anthony Rendon in an altercation with a fan at the Oakland Coliseum.
— The Athletic MLB (@TheAthleticMLB) March 31, 2023
The Angels gave no comment, but said Rendon will be available to comment before tomorrow's game, per @SamBlum3.
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Rendon’s exchange with the fan added to an all-around frustrating Opening Day for L.A. and the former World Series champion. Rendon, who is now in his fourth season with the club, finished the game 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and a walk.