The Los Angeles Angels haven’t reached the postseason since 2014, when they were swept by the Kansas City Royals in the American League Division Series.
Despite being one of MLB’s premier talents, franchise cornerstone Mike Trout has yet to win a playoff game in his 15-year career. That could change this season if the Angels manage to secure one of the American League’s three Wild Card berths.
Trout, who signed a record-setting 12-year, $426.5 million extension with the Angels in March 2019, is still owed $222.6 million through the 2030 season. However, his career has been hampered by injuries in recent years, prompting some analysts to label his contract as one of the worst in baseball.
Injuries Have Stalled Trout’s Greatness
Since 2019, Trout has landed on the injured list five times. He played just 82 games in 2023 and only 29 in 2024 after a torn meniscus sidelined him early in the season.
In 2025, Trout is serving exclusively as the Angels’ designated hitter as the team looks to preserve his health by keeping him out of the outfield.
“The 33-year-old hasn’t played the field since returning in late May, and there’s a real possibility he won’t again,” wrote Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report, citing injury prevention as the main reason.
“If this approach allows him to appear in more games than he misses over the remainder of his contract, then the Angels may recoup some value. But it’s becoming increasingly difficult to justify Trout being among the league’s top-paid players through 2030.”
Even with his limited availability, Trout remains a productive hitter.
“Since the start of 2023, he’s played in the equivalent of a full season—162 games total—slashing .246/.349/.489 with 40 home runs and a 4.4 bWAR,” noted Kelly. “Those are solid numbers, but not up to the elite standards Trout once set. It’s more Kyle Schwarber-level power with the injury concerns of Anthony Rendon.”
Could the Angels Trade Trout?
Although a trade involving Trout before the July 31 deadline isn’t impossible, it’s unlikely given his massive contract and the more than $200 million still owed to him. Few teams would be eager to take on that financial burden.
Trout has also made it clear that he hopes to finish his career with the Angels, the team that drafted him, and wants to bring a championship to Anaheim.
The three-time MVP and 11-time All-Star now needs more offensive help to push the Angels into playoff contention.
Shortstop Zach Neto is currently the team’s most valuable hitter with a 2.7 bWAR, 12 home runs, and an .802 OPS over 64 games. Outfielder Jo Adell is also heating up, with 18 home runs in 76 games—just two shy of his career high.
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