Mike Trout, Angels to Discuss Position Change from CF in 2025 Return from Knee Injury

When Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout makes his long-awaited return to the field, it sounds like there's a likelihood that he won't be in his usual position.

Trout told The Athletic's Sam Blum that he plans to discuss switching from center field with the Angels over the offseason.

"I think everything is on the table," Trout said. "Ultimately, my goal is to be in that batter's box, in the field, every single day. Whether that's moving to a corner, DHing more, that's just something that I'll leave up to the front office to come up with a plan."

Trout saw some time in right field and left field early in his career but has solely played center field since 2013. He added that he knew a potential switch to a corner outfield position was in his future for quite some time.

"I definitely think there's going to be conversations we have in the offseason," Trout said. "I know it's reality. I know I've got a certain number of years on my deal, and I knew eventually, even when I signed the deal, that I was going to have to move to a corner. It is what it is. Is it next year? I don't know."

Trout appeared in just 29 games this season before being diagnosed with a torn meniscus that required surgery in early May. He tore his meniscus again during a minor league rehab assignment in July and was ruled out for the remainder of the season.

This marks the fourth time in the last five seasons that Trout has been limited to fewer than 100 games. In his 109 plate appearances, he hit .220 with 10 home runs and 14 RBI.

With Trout sidelined, the Angels' perennial struggles continued, as they rank last in the AL West with a 60-89 record and will miss the playoffs for the 10th straight year.

Keeping Trout healthy will be paramount for the Angels' chances to turn things around next season, so switching to a less stressful position sounds like a sensible option for the 33-year-old.