Mike Trout: ‘Everything’s on the Table’ for Move to Corner Outfield or DH

In a surprising turn of events, Mike Trout, the celebrated slugger for the Los Angeles Angels and a three-time American League MVP, has expressed a willingness to consider transitioning to a different position as he navigates injury challenges. Having missed a staggering 370 games over the past four seasons, Trout is ready to explore options during discussions with the team in the offseason.

Prior to a recent match against the Chicago White Sox, Trout revealed that “everything’s on the table” regarding potential position changes. This could involve moving to a corner outfield position or assuming a more regular role as a designated hitter. The 32-year-old expressed a strong desire to remain active on the field.

“Ultimately, my goal is to be in that batter’s box, in the field every single day,” Trout stated, speaking to reporters for the first time in nearly two months. He indicated that while he is open to various options, the final decision will be guided by the team’s front office.

In recent seasons, Trout’s playing time has been dramatically reduced, with only 266 games played since 2021. This year, he participated in just 29 games before an MRI revealed a torn meniscus in his left knee, leading to surgery on May 3.

After surgery, he initially aimed for a return by late July. Unfortunately, further complications arose during a rehabilitation stint with Triple-A Salt Lake, culminating in another MRI that confirmed a new tear. This led to season-ending surgery on August 7, coinciding with his 33rd birthday.

Reflecting on his injuries, Trout admitted uncertainty about how they occurred. His recent injury history has been tumultuous: he managed just 36 games in 2021 due to a calf strain, and though he played 119 games in 2022, he faced a five-week absence from a back issue. Last season was no different; he fractured a bone in his hand on July 3, 2022, and his return attempt in August saw him featuring in one game, ultimately finishing with only 82 appearances.

Throughout his 14-year career, Trout has predominantly played center field, starting 1,332 of 1,502 games in that role. In contrast, he has only 90 games logged in the outfield corners and 80 games as a designated hitter. His overall career batting average stands at .299, but as a designated hitter, he has struggled, registering just a .214 average.

“I know I have a certain amount of years left on my deal and I’ve always recognized that transitioning to a corner is in my future,” Trout acknowledged. His contract, which totals $426.5 million, runs through the 2030 season. “But whether that transition is next year remains uncertain. We’ll have those conversations.”

Despite the setbacks, Trout has resumed training; he has started hitting and is engaging in agility drills, hopeful for a steady offseason training routine. He led the majors with 10 home runs before being sidelined and finished the season batting .220 with 14 RBIs and six stolen bases.

“I felt confident in where I was, how I was training, and how I was working out during the season,” Trout remarked. “Coming into spring, I felt really good. There are definitely going to be some discussions about aspects I can improve on.”