The Los Angeles Angels are preparing for another season in which they hope their current group can finally reach the MLB playoffs. The Angels are still led by center fielder Mike Trout, who has spent the last 15 years trying to carry the organization into October but has rarely had a roster strong enough around him.
To make matters worse, injuries have continued to be a problem as he ages. Last year, the 34-year-old veteran appeared in 130 games for the first time since 2019, but he was limited to designated‑hitter duties only, and his numbers declined.
Trout posted a .232 batting average, .359 on‑base percentage, .797 OPS, 26 home runs and 64 RBIs. Those are still solid numbers, but underwhelming for a player of his caliber. He is, after all, a three‑time American League MVP, 11‑time All‑Star and nine‑time Silver Slugger.
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That is why this season is so important for Trout as he attempts to return to peak form while staying fully healthy. He is already making strides, showing increased speed in spring training and preparing for a full return to center field rather than remaining at DH.
He has also partnered with a company called Ammortal, crediting its high‑tech recovery chamber for helping him boost performance and longevity.
But even with improved recovery methods, baseball always carries the risk of freak accidents, which is exactly what happened Friday during the Angels spring training game against the Chicago White Sox.
In the bottom of the first inning, Trout was hit by a pitch on the hand. Trainers immediately rushed out to evaluate him, and after a few minutes, he jogged to first base, briefly easing concerns. However, by the time the bottom of the second inning began, Trout had been replaced and pinch-hit for by Gabriel Davalillo and did not return.
Fortunately for the Angels, the update that followed was a positive one. Jeff Fletcher of the SoCal News Group reported, “Trout got an X‑ray, and it was negative.”
With Opening Day just a week away, it would have been a major setback for the Angels to see Trout begin the year on the injured list.
Instead, they can breathe a sigh of relief and continue hoping that a healthy Trout can finally anchor a roster capable of pushing them back into contention.
