TEMPE, Ariz. — “I know what I’m capable of,” said Mike Trout, as he faces a new chapter in his career with a shift in position. Despite the recent changes, his expectations remain unwavering.
Last week, MLB Network unveiled its ranking of baseball’s top 100 players, placing Trout at No. 39. This list positioned him just behind 31-year-old Matt Chapman and ahead of 20-year-old Jackson Chourio. A three-time MVP, 11-time All-Star, and nine-time Silver Slugger, Trout’s ranking raised eyebrows, especially considering he played only 29 games last season and 82 the year prior.
“Hey, they’re going off the last couple of years, and I haven’t been out there,” Trout remarked before the Angels’ first full-squad workout of spring training. His acknowledgment of the ranking did not equate to agreement.
“I know where I stand,” he added, reflecting his confidence despite the setbacks.
In the last four seasons, Trout has participated in just 266 out of 648 possible games due to injuries. Nevertheless, he ranks fourth in OPS among players with at least 1,000 plate appearances during that time, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level when healthy.
General manager Perry Minasian emphasized Trout’s impact: “When he plays, we’re different. When his name’s in the lineup, it just feels different.”
Despite a decline from his peak performance, Trout still managed to hit 32% better than the league average in 2023, and 40% better in his brief appearance the previous season before injuries struck.
While some may perceive his ranking as a reflection of his diminished status, Trout views it as motivation to prove his worth. “Last couple years have been tough, some fluke things,” he stated. “I’m trying to put myself in the best position to be out there for the whole season.”
The Angels are also adjusting their strategy. To preserve Trout’s health and keep Taylor Ward in left field, the team has decided to shift Trout to right field. He will also take on designated hitter duties, marking the end of his tenure as the club’s full-time center fielder.
“I knew it was coming,” Trout acknowledged. “I just want to be on the field.”
With Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak stepping in to cover center field, both players bring valuable experience. Adell was a Gold Glove finalist in right field last season, and Moniak played 98 games in center after Trout’s injury.
Moniak explained the adjustment from center to right: “Center field, you’re kind of straight on. In right field, everything seems to be running away from you.”
Manager Ron Washington expressed confidence in Trout’s ability to adapt. “Mike is an athlete. He’ll figure it out,” he stated, adding a note of caution about communication on the field.
Maintaining Trout’s health is the priority for the Angels. Over the past few years, he has faced various injuries, including a season-ending calf strain in 2021 and a hamate fracture in 2023. The hope is that by reducing his responsibilities in the outfield, he can remain on the field longer.
Washington believes Trout can excel in right field. “I think Mike’s going to be one of the best right fielders in the game,” he asserted.
As Trout prepares for the season, he plans to seek advice from Torii Hunter, a former Gold Glove winner who transitioned to right field later in his career. Trout also reported to camp lighter than in previous years, indicating his commitment to staying fit.
Despite the ranking that suggests some doubt about his abilities, Trout remains confident. “Yeah, stuff like that I think fires you up a little bit,” he concluded, ready to prove himself once again.
