Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout is making a pivotal position change to right field in 2024, prioritizing durability after a turbulent stretch of injuries. The three-time AL MVP, who has missed significant time in three of the last four seasons, initiated the move himself to reduce strain on his body. I want to preserve my legs and still contribute, Trout emphasized during Spring Training.
Trout’s injury history underscores the urgency of this transition:
- 2021: Calf strain limiting play to 36 games
- 2022: Back injury sidelining him for weeks
- 2023: Torn meniscus and hand fracture restricting him to 29 games
The Angels’ $37 million-per-year cornerstone also hinted at rotating into a designated hitter role on occasion.
I threw everything on the table to stay healthy,he stated, acknowledging the team’s collaborative approach. While he’ll focus on mastering right field, manager Ron Washington confirmed Trout might return to center for critical defensive situations.
This strategic shift mirrors recent MLB trends where aging stars like Albert Pujols leveraged position changes to prolong productivity. For Trout — whose 2019 MVP season featured 45 home runs — consistent health could reignite his Hall-of-Fame trajectory. The Angels, meanwhile, hope this reboot translates to wins after seven consecutive losing seasons.
