NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Los Angeles Angels’ General Manager Perry Minasian has categorically ruled out any possibility of trading their superstar center fielder, Mike Trout. Speaking from the winter meetings, Minasian was asked about the potential trade of Trout and responded with an emphatic “100 percent.”
Speculation about a Trout trade had been circulating, albeit faintly, but the notion was considered highly unlikely. Several factors make such a trade improbable: Trout possesses a full no-trade clause, is under contract for nearly $250 million over the next seven years, and, at 32, has had his fair share of injuries in recent seasons, diminishing his trade value significantly.
Trout has never publicly expressed a desire to leave the Angels, despite the team’s limited success in reaching the playoffs since his debut in 2012. His loyalty to the organization has remained steadfast.
During an end-of-season interview in September, Trout discussed his ongoing conversations with Angels’ owner Arte Moreno and president John Carpino, emphasizing his commitment to the team.
Trout, once on a trajectory to become one of baseball’s all-time greats, has faced injuries in recent years that have hampered his availability. He has played in only 237 of a possible 486 games over the past three seasons due to various injuries, including calf strains, back issues, and a fractured hamate bone.
Trout’s unavailability, coupled with injuries to other key players like Anthony Rendon and the team’s challenges in free-agent signings and developing homegrown talent, have hindered the Angels’ ability to fully capitalize on the remarkable talents of Shohei Ohtani. The team is coming off its eighth consecutive season with a losing record.
Minasian has expressed his confidence in Trout’s commitment to the team, highlighting his professionalism and dedication. The Angels are hopeful that Trout’s offseason preparations will help him return to full form and lead the team to success in the upcoming season.