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Mike Trout, the three-time AL MVP, hit his first home run of the 2024 Spring Training on Wednesday, a solo shot over the left-field wall. The Los Angeles Angels star is aiming for a strong comeback after battling through a series of injuries in recent seasons.
Mike Trout's first spring training Homer
At 33 years old, Trout made his presence felt with a solid swing in the third inning off Cincinnati reliever Bryan Shaw. The home run was a positive sign for Trout, who has dealt with various injuries in the past few years. Serving as the designated hitter in the game, Trout reflected on the at-bat:
It felt good, he said. Just having some good at-bats, seeing pitches and got a good result.
Mike Trout: overcoming injury setbacks
Trout’s ability to stay healthy has been a challenge in recent years. In 2023, he played just 29 games before undergoing surgery on May 3 to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. The previous seasons were similarly tough: in 2021, he missed most of the season due to a strained right calf, and in 2022, he was sidelined for over a month with an upper back and ribcage injury. Trout also fractured the hamate bone in his left hand in 2023, which limited him to just one game after July 3.
Despite these setbacks, Trout remains one of the most consistent hitters in MLB. His most recent MVP season in 2019 saw him hit .291 with 45 home runs and 104 RBIs. Over his 14 seasons with the Angels, he has accumulated a .299 career batting average and 378 home runs.
Mike Trout: transition to right field
This Spring Training marks a significant change for Trout, as he transitions from center field to right field. The move is part of his effort to preserve his health and longevity. Although it’s still early in the process, Trout has already played one game in right field and shared his thoughts on the adjustment.
Looking forward to it, getting some reads off the bat, he explained. It’s different visuals you’ve got to work on, and then you’ve got different angles on the line at different stadiums. It’ll be an adjustment but I’m enjoying it.
Trout is scheduled to play more games in right field as the Spring Training progresses, continuing his preparations for the 2024 MLB season.
