Mike Trout is at the All-Star Game, and apparently that means it’s time for the annual “will he leave the Angels” conversation. The three-time MVP had a pretty direct answer when reporters asked about a potential move to the Phillies.
“I didn’t think I was going to hear this question,” Trout said, according to a post on X. “I enjoy coming to Philly. I’m an Angel. I got a no-trade clause. So, it’s ultimately my decision. I love Philly.”
That’s about as clear as it gets. Trout has a full no-trade clause in his contract, which means he controls where he goes if the Angels ever decide to move him. And right now, he’s not interested.
The All-Star homecoming
Tuesday night’s Midsummer Classic had extra meaning for Trout. He was playing about 45 minutes from his hometown of Millville, New Jersey, and soaking up the moment.
“Never would have envisioned this,” the 34-year-old told The Athletic. “But now I’m here. I’m trying to soak it all in.”
It’s his 12th All-Star appearance, which leads everyone in the game right now. That’s not nothing for a guy who’s dealt with his share of injuries over the past seven years.
Injury issues but still producing
Speaking of injuries, Trout missed time from June 18 to July 6 with something. He came back and played four games before the break, hitting a homer and driving in three runs on four hits in 18 at-bats. Not bad for a guy shaking off rust.
For the season, Trout is hitting .237 with a .390 on-base percentage. He’s got 18 homers, 39 RBIs and seven stolen bases. That last number is his highest since 2019, when he swiped 11 bags in 134 games. So there’s that.
The .237 batting average looks ugly, but the OBP tells a different story. Trout is still drawing walks and getting on base at an elite clip. The hits just haven’t fallen.
He’s played 78 games in the first half, so he’s on pace to cross 100 for the first time since 2019. That would be a win in itself for a guy who’s been banged up for years.
Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger summed up how the league feels about Trout: “I just really respect him. I just think he’s so good and so talented. He’s been so good for so long.”
So for now, Trout is still an Angel. The no-trade clause means that’s his call, and he’s not budging. The Phillies fans can keep dreaming.
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