Angels Star Opens Up on Position Change

Bassyonni

Published: February 16, 2026 5:44 PM ET

Mike Trout, the star outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels, expressed a desire to return to his natural position of center field. During a recent media gathering, the veteran player, aged 34, shared insights about his comfort playing in center and how it’s less taxing on his body compared to right field.

Trout’s Transition to Center Field

Trout’s discussions with the Angels’ first-year manager Kurt Suzuki seem promising. The team is considering bringing Trout back to center, where he has traditionally excelled. His shift to designated hitter and right field occurred in recent years due to ongoing injury concerns.

Injury History and Performance Impact

Since the shortened 2020 season, Trout has struggled to complete a full campaign. He has not surpassed 130 games per season since 2019, grappling with multiple injuries. Key incidents include a season-ending meniscus tear in 2024, a fractured hamate bone in 2023, and a rare back condition diagnosed in 2022.

Despite these challenges, Trout managed to play 106 games as a designated hitter and 22 in right field in 2025. However, his performance was disappointing by his standards, finishing with 26 home runs and 64 RBIs, alongside a slashed line of .232/.359/.439.

Potential for a New Position

The Angels recently traded outfielder Taylor Ward to Baltimore, which could open up a spot for Trout in center field. Other players, like Jo Adell, Jorge Soler, and Josh Lowe, are available options for the outfield. Adell, who primarily played center in the previous season, did not shine defensively, making a compelling case for Trout’s return to the position.

Angels’ Recent Performance and Future Outlook

Trout’s health and positioning are crucial as the Angels seek to end their playoff drought, which has lasted since 2014, the last time the team clinched postseason action. The 2025 season concluded with the Angels in last place in the American League West, sporting a 72-90 record.

With Ron Washington missing substantial time due to health issues, Suzuki was appointed as the new manager. For the Angels to achieve success in the upcoming season, they will rely heavily on a healthy and productive Trout in his preferred center field position.

Michael Trout’s Age: 34
Last season with consecutive injuries: 2019
Home Runs in 2025: 26
RBIs in 2025: 64
Last playoff appearance: 2014
2025 Team Record: 72-90

As the Angels prepare for the 2026 season, the hope is that a return to center field will revitalize Trout, allowing him to reclaim his status as a standout player for the team.