Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout has been one of the most dominant players in Major League Baseball over the past decade, but his recent injury struggles have overshadowed his immense talent. Now, as he prepares for the 2025 season, Trout is focused on one primary goal—staying healthy and getting back to his All-Star form.
Trout, a three-time American League MVP and 11-time All-Star, has played just 266 games over the last four seasons, battling a series of freak injuries that have derailed his availability. From a calf strain and back inflammation to a broken hamate bone and torn meniscus, Trout has struggled to stay on the field.
Speaking with MLB Network, Trout expressed his determination to put his injuries behind him and return to playing at the level he’s accustomed to.
“Being on the field—I enjoy playing. I had some freak stuff happen to me over the last three years,” Trout said when asked about his personal goals for 2025. “Out of my control, but I feel great. Normally, it’s light in the offseason, but I worked on some things, and my swing feels a lot better. … Last four, five years, I’ve been chasing and doing stuff at the plate that I normally don’t do.”
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Position Change: Moving to Right Field to Preserve His Body
In an effort to reduce wear and tear on his body, the Angels are moving Trout from center field to right field for the 2025 season. Despite spending the majority of his career patrolling center, the 33-year-old has only played 17 career games in right field, and none since his rookie season in 2012.
Trout acknowledged the adjustment but is embracing the change with an open mind.
“I literally didn’t know that I played some right field until I saw some highlights,” Trout said. “I played a couple games in right field when I was brought up. I’m looking forward to it. You still need to catch the ball. Different angles, (and) you got the wall in play now. I got great mentors that have done it before me like Torii (Hunter).”
The Angels are hoping that shifting Trout to a less physically demanding position will keep him on the field more consistently.
A Revamped Angels Roster Aiming to End Playoff Drought
While Trout’s health and position change are major storylines heading into 2025, the Angels’ front office was aggressive this offseason, adding several veteran pieces to help a young core push for a postseason return.
The team brought in:
- Yusei Kikuchi (Starting Pitcher)
- Kenley Jansen (Closer)
- Jorge Soler (Outfielder/Designated Hitter)
- Travis d’Arnaud (Catcher)
- Yoán Moncada (Infielder)
- Tim Anderson (Shortstop)
- Kyle Hendricks (Starting Pitcher)
The Angels are hoping that these key additions, alongside Trout and rising star Logan O’Hoppe, can help snap their 10-year playoff drought—the longest active streak in the American League.
Trout acknowledged the struggles of the past few seasons but emphasized a new mentality within the organization.
“The last few years have been difficult for us because we haven’t made the playoffs, but we’re trying to change the whole culture and the whole mindset coming to the ballpark every single day,” Trout said.
As the 2025 season approaches, Trout is not only adjusting his game but also taking on a leadership role in shaping the Angels’ winning mindset. If he can stay healthy, he remains one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball—and a key piece in Los Angeles’ postseason aspirations.
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