Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout is making a move from center field to right field for the 2025 MLB season. This change aims to keep Trout healthier by reducing the aerobic stress on his body, as he will cover less ground defensively compared to his previous position in center field.
Health concerns have been a long-standing issue for Trout, who is 33 years old. Over the past two seasons, he has played a total of only 111 games, including just 29 games last year. He has played more than 100 games in a season only twice in the last six years.
Health has been a longstanding concern. Trout, 33, has played 111 total games over the past two seasons, including just 29 last year. He’s played more than 100 games just twice in the last six seasons.
This shift in position is a precautionary measure designed to allow Trout to play to his full potential without being hampered by the fear of past injuries.
“We talked about it yesterday; I’m not gonna limit myself,” Trout told the media. “I can still play the game hard. That’s the only way I know how to play. But I want to limit the overall wear and tear on my body. I think that’s the best you can do.”
Trout is a three-time American League MVP and an 11-time All-Star. However, his controversial lack of availability has raised questions about his status among the top players in baseball. This issue is at the center of an Angels organization that is struggling to establish direction, identity, or the ability to win games. They find themselves in this position due to a series of questionable decisions made by the front office, leaving the team in an uncertain state.
The Angels are coming off their first season without Shohei Ohtani, which was further impacted by Trout’s injury, leading to one of the worst records in MLB at 63-99. In 2023, the team had the opportunity to trade Ohtani before he hit free agency but chose to stand pat—a decision that ultimately proved to be a mistake. They traded for Lucas Giolito, giving up two of their top five prospects, only to see Giolito pitch six games for the Angels and register a -0.4 WAR.
When Ohtani joined the Dodgers, many believed it would be wise for the Angels to trade Trout and embrace a youth movement in Anaheim. However, Trout’s sudden injury limited their chances of making a trade or at least diminished the potential return they could get for him.
They have attempted to compile a list of players, including Yusei Kikuchi, Yoán Moncada, and Jorge Soler, creating what feels more like a collection of individuals rather than a cohesive roster. If the Angels perform as many expect them to this season, these players will likely be traded for assets at the trade deadline. If that happens, another opportunity to trade Mike Trout may arise.
While trying to keep Trout as healthy as possible may not elevate the Angels into playoff contention, his availability is crucial for any hope of success. At 33 years old, trying a new position is a worthwhile gamble for the team. The chances of the Angels making the playoffs appear slim, but if they want to improve, Trout must play more frequently. Or even just play at all.
By Anders Pryor