Angels’ Mike Trout Shifts to Right Field in Bid to Preserve Health
Oft-Injured Star Hopes to Stay on the Field
TEMPE, Ariz. — Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout is making a significant change in an effort to stay healthy and on the field. The three-time AL MVP is moving from center to right field, a decision he says will help him “preserve the legs and go out there and run some balls down in right.”
A History of Injuries
Trout has played in 82 or fewer games in three of the past four seasons, including last year when he was limited to just 29 games due to surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. He also missed significant time in previous seasons with a strained calf, back injury, and broken bone in his hand.
Requests the Position Change
Trout approached the club about the position switch, citing his desire to prioritize his body and extend his playing career. “I kind of threw everything on the table as in what’s best for me bodywise to keep me on the field,” he said. “I came to the conclusion that I’m going to go to right field. I’ll try it out and see where it goes.”
Adapting to the New Position
Although he’s never played right field professionally, Trout is eager to make the transition. “I knew it was coming, but I’ve just got to get used to it,” he said. “I just want to be on the field.”
Additional Options
Trout may also see time at designated hitter and could get more off days to rest his body. “I’ve just got to be honest with them on how I feel,” he said. “They obviously will try to give me days off, but I want to be out there.”
A New Chapter
Maybe by making the move to right field, the Angels will get more out of Trout, who dominated the league in his first decade in the majors and now makes more than $37 million. In his most recent MVP season in 2019, Trout batted .291 with 45 home runs and 104 RBIs.
Conclusion
Trout’s decision to move to right field is a significant one, as it’s a departure from his traditional position in center field. While it’s unclear how this will impact his performance, it’s clear that he’s willing to make changes to prioritize his health and extend his playing career.
FAQs
Q: Why is Mike Trout moving to right field?
A: Trout is making the move to prioritize his health and reduce the risk of injury.
Q: How will this impact his performance?
A: It’s unclear, but Trout is eager to adapt to the new position and make the most of his time on the field.
Q: Will he still see time at designated hitter?
A: Yes, Trout may also play DH and get more off days to rest his body.
Q: What’s the goal behind this move?
A: Trout wants to stay on the field and extend his playing career, citing his desire to “preserve the legs and go out there and run some balls down in right.”
