"Possible Relocation of Mike Trout from Center Field"
Mike Trout, in the process of recovering from two knee surgeries, acknowledged that a shift away from center field may be in his future.
The superstar for the Los Angeles Angels, who underwent surgery to repair his left meniscus in early May, required a second operation on the knee in July, effectively ending his season. He discussed his rehabilitation on Monday before the team's series opener against the Chicago White Sox in Anaheim, California.
Trout, a three-time American League MVP, has averaged only 66.5 games over the past four seasons.
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Looking ahead to his return next year and where he might fit on the field, Trout stated, "I believe all options are on the table. Ultimately, my goal is to be on the field every day, both at the plate and in the field. Whether that means moving to a corner outfield position or serving as a designated hitter more often, I will leave it up to the front office to come up with a plan. Given my current situation and the events of the past few years, I am determined to explore every possibility that will allow me to stay out there."
Trout signed a 12-year, $426.5 million contract extension with the Angels in March 2019, but the most games he has played in a season since then was 119 in 2022.
"I think there will definitely be discussions (about his position) in the offseason," Trout said. "It's the reality. I am aware of the length of my contract and I knew when I signed it that I would eventually move to a corner position. But will it happen next year? I am not sure. We will have conversations."
During his first three seasons in the major leagues, from 2011-2013, Trout spent time in left field and right field, starting a total of 90 games at those positions. However, he has been exclusively a center fielder since then.
He has only been the designated hitter for the Angels 80 times in his career, partly due to his preference to avoid that role. The statistics also support this preference, as his career numbers as a DH - a .214 batting average and .745 OPS - are significantly lower than his overall figures of .299 and .991, respectively.
As for his recovery, Trout said, "I feel great. I just started swinging about four or five days ago, trying to get back into a routine so I can have a normal offseason. I am getting stronger every day. It feels good to be able to move some weight around."
Trout, 33, recorded a .220 average, a .541 OPS, 10 home runs, and 14 RBIs in 29 games this year. The 11-time All-Star and nine-time Silver Slugger Award winner has hit 378 home runs and 954 RBIs in 1,518 career games, all with the Angels.
