Angels GM Downplays Former MVP's Down Season

Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout did not have his best season in 2023. The 11-time All-Star and three-time AL MVP hit his lowest batting average of his career against fastballs, and didn't put up the same level of production as during his top seasons.

Still, Angels general manager Perry Minasian is not worried about this "down" year for Trout heading into 2024. Minasian explained his lack of concern Tuesday while speaking with reporters in Glendale, Arizona, including Halos Today's J.P. Hoornstra:

“It’s Mike Trout. So I never put anything past Mike Trout. Players go through ebbs and flows. People have to make adjustments. The greatest player in the world, throughout the course of time, there will be certain situations where they have to make adjustments."

— Angels general manager Perry Minasian

"It's Mike Trout" sums up the crux of Minasian's source of confidence. With a future Hall of Famer like Trout, he has a whole career to back up the kind of player he is and can be. Minasian added that he's seen Trout put in some of the hardest work among players in camp so far.

"I wouldn’t take a small sample and make too big a deal of it. He’s come in camp in really good shape. He’s hungry. He’s working. I was sitting back watching the outfield drills today. He was the first one in line. That says something. It says how motivated he is and the example he set for our young players today. It’s a small thing but it’s a big thing, too. I’m excited to see how the spring progresses and to get his season started.”

— Angels general manager Perry Minasian

Injuries have played a significant factor in Trout's down year as well. Trout has been unable to play 100 games in two out of the last three non-pandemic seasons, compared to when he played at least 100 every year from 2012-19. 

Nagging injuries and inconsistent playing time will certainly affect most players. With Trout looking healthier heading into this season, it makes sense that Minasian is optimistic about his star player.