Mike Trout Open to Position Change Amid Injury-Plagued Seasons

Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout may shift positions after missing a significant number of games over the past four years due to injuries.

Mike Trout, the three-time American League MVP and Los Angeles Angels slugger, has expressed his willingness to consider a position change in the wake of several injury-plagued seasons. With 370 games missed over the past four years, Trout acknowledged that "everything's on the table" when discussing his future with the team during the upcoming offseason. The discussions may include moving to a corner outfield spot or increasing his role as a designated hitter.

"Ultimately, my goal is to be in that batter's box, in the field every single day," said Trout, addressing reporters for the first time in nearly two months. "Whether that's moving to a corner or DHing more, that's something that I'll leave it up to the front office to come up with a plan."

Mike Trout Open to Position Change Amid Injury-Plagued Seasons

Trout's recent injury history is a major concern. He has played in only 266 games since the start of the 2021 season, including just 29 games this year before suffering a torn meniscus in his left knee that required surgery in May. Despite an expected return in late July, discomfort during a rehab assignment revealed a new tear, leading to season-ending surgery in August.

In addition to the knee injury, Trout missed 36 games in 2021 due to a strained calf, was sidelined for five weeks in 2022 with a back injury, and broke a bone in his hand in 2023, limiting him to 82 games.

Throughout his 14-year career, Trout has primarily played center field, starting 1,332 out of 1,502 games. He has limited experience in the outfield corners (77 games in left field, 13 in right field) and as a DH (80 games).

"I know I have a certain amount of years on my deal and I knew when I signed my contract, I'd eventually move to a corner," said Trout, whose $426.5 million contract runs through 2030. "But is it next year? I don't know. But we'll have conversations."

Trout's offensive production has also been impacted by the injuries. He led the majors with 10 home runs at the time of his knee injury this season but finished with a batting average of .220. He acknowledged that he needs to improve certain aspects of his game.

"Coming into spring, I felt really good," said Trout. "So there's definitely going to be some conversations on things that I can improve on."

Trout has resumed hitting and agility drills in his recovery process and expects to have a normal offseason training program. The Angels are hoping to have their franchise player back to full strength for the 2024 season.