For the last decade, Mike Trout has been a mainstay in center field for the Angels — at least when he’s been healthy. Trout missed significant time over the last four seasons. To lessen the burden on his body, the Angels are moving Trout from center field to right.

Mike Trout told media on February 17 that he would move to right field in 2025, a move that’s designed to keep the superstar outfielder on the field and limit the wear on his body. Trout’s played less than 120 games in each of the last four full seasons, plus the shortened 2020 campaign.

The decision came after Trout met with the Angels brass, including manager Ron Washington.

“[We] came to [the] conclusion that I’m gonna go to right field. I like it, I’ll try it out, see where it goes,” Trout told the media.

Since becoming a full-time Major Leaguer in 2012, Trout has been the primary center fielder for the Angels. He did see significant time in left during his rookie season, thanks to the presence of noted defensive wizard Torii Hunter. But since then, Trout’s only played 47 games off center, all of which came in 2013.

It comes as another change in Trout’s game. The 33-year-old was one a feared stolen base man in his own right. The last time, though, Trout stole 10+ bases came in 2019.

Had he stayed healthy last season, Trout likely would have hit double-digits in the stolen base category. He had six over 29 games in 2024.

The Angels are largely expected to use Mickey Moniak and Jo Adell to fill the void in center field. Taylor Ward, a target of trade rumors over the last year, is also among the reported options but fits much better as a corner.

Both Adell and Moniak have their flaws offensively, specifically Adell’s swing-and-miss troubles. However, both are athletic outfielders with good speed.

Trout could also see time in the DH slot. However, Jorge Soler, who we noted earlier in the offseason is a below-average defender, should be the team’s primary designated hitter.

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