If one were to describe Mike Trout, the first thought that comes to mind is undoubtedly an MVP, a veteran, and a warm spirit. But if there was one word to describe what his years from 2019 leading up to now are — it’s challenging! The past few years have tested him in ways few could imagine. Injuries, surgeries, and time in the IL are what he has gone through over the years. A veteran of his caliber hasn’t been able to finish any season in the last few years because of injuries. And this season it’s no different with him on the outs because of his meniscus injury very early on.

Trout played a total of just 29 games this season! It is a mighty blow for the Los Angeles Angels, who paid a whopping $465.5 million for him and were banking on the veteran to take the team forward.

Moreover, not to mention, for a team that has mostly young talent, Trout brought that senior energy. However, even though Trout couldn’t make much of a difference on-field, his contributions off the field tell a different story. And hence, once again for the fourth time, he is nominated for the esteemed Roberto Clemente Award.

Mike Trout, a true champion for the community

The Roberto Clemente Award is a prestigious award, a one-of-a-kind award given to those baseball players who display exceptional character. It is for those who work not only on the diamond but also towards the welfare of the community. And Mike Trout’s work in raising awareness for mental health has not gone unnoticed. The Angels veteran just lost his brother-in-law after he took his own life, so for him, it carries a personal weight.

Talking about the nomination, Mike Trout said, “It means a lot. It was a special moment Sunday going on the field. Just being in the same conversation with everybody across the league that was nominated, it’s just a special thing. I’ve always tried to give back to the community every chance I get. So it’s a special, special award.” This nomination marks his fourth time, and that says a lot about his efforts to make a difference. 

Mike Trout has teamed up with several organizations to help promote mental wellness and tackle such tough situations. He also worked with Tiny Turnip, an apparel company creating campaigns like Your Game Isn’t Over Yet, to prevent people from doing self-harm. But that’s not all. Trout also visits hospitals regularly to help bring smiles to young patients’ faces. He also partners with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to support those who are struggling with serious health issues. Just this year he met Samuel, a 15-year-old boy suffering‌ from a tumor, and played catch with him. 

Every little smile counts for these children, and Trout’s support means a lot. Manager of the Angels, Ron Washington perfectly summoned up Trout saying, “You couldn’t give it to a better guy.” Trout may have had a tough few years, but he has earned the love and respect of innumerable people.

Mike Trout is in a different position next season? 

Mike Trout is a veteran, an MVP, and a warm soul–but what good is he to a team if he can’t play for the Los Angeles Angels? This season, he could play less than 30 times, and that itself is plenty of wasted talent for the team. But seems like lady luck, simple has not been on his side. But he knows that time doesn’t stop, and recently talked about how he is open to changing his position on the team’s lineup. Except there is a problem with that too!

Now Trout hasn’t played in any other position than the center field position—that’s his exclusive since 2013! How is the change going to be smooth? But Trout says all options are on the table now. He said, “Ultimately, my goal is to be in that batter’s box, in the field, every single day. Whether that’s moving to a corner, DHing more, that’s just something that I’ll leave up to the front office to come up with a plan.” But if he does start in another position, it will be a little relaxed for him since playing at his position is tough. 

But the truth is that a healthy Mike Trout is what the team needs right now. So it remains to see if Mike Trout, for real, will move to a different position. What do you think? Let us know!