Los Angeles Angels General Manager Perry Minasian confirmed today that star outfielder Mike Trout will miss the remainder of the 2024 season due to a torn left meniscus. This announcement marks a significant blow for the Angels, who have struggled to capitalize on their top talents in recent years.
Season Cut Short
Trout hasn’t taken the field since suffering the initial meniscus tear on April 29. Up until his injury, he managed to play just 29 games, hitting 10 home runs in that short span. Unfortunately, this appears to be part of a broader pattern for the 32-year-old outfielder. Various injuries have limited Trout’s participation to just 266 out of a possible 648 games over the past four seasons, a mere 41% participation rate.
Post-All-Star Break Struggles
Examining Trout's performance post-All-Star break from 2021 to 2024 paints a troubling picture. Over these four seasons, he only managed to lace up for 41 games combined. As Trout's 33rd birthday looms next week, the milestone could signal not just another year, but potentially a continued decline in his playing durability.
A Heavy Investment
The Angels made a substantial financial commitment to Trout in March 2019, signing him to a 12-year, $426.5 million extension. With the sixth year of that contract unfolding amid recurring injuries, the financial and strategic implications for the team are significant. Trout remains under contract through 2030, with the Angels owing him $35.45 million annually from 2025 to 2030, totaling $212.7 million.
Postseason Absence
Despite having both Trout and dynamic two-way player Shohei Ohtani on their roster for the past six seasons, the Angels have been unable to post a winning record or secure a postseason berth. The lone postseason appearance of Trout's illustrious career came in 2014, where the team was swept by the Kansas City Royals in the Division Series.
Financial Constraints
Team owner Arte Moreno has imposed restrictions on the team's ability to exceed the competitive balance tax threshold, which has further complicated the franchise's efforts to rebuild and compete. In August, the Angels shed payroll to avoid crossing this threshold, highlighting ongoing financial struggles.
Organizational Struggles
The Angels' woes extend beyond just injuries and financial management. Poor player development, questionable free-agent signings, and a series of unsuccessful trades have plagued the organization. Trout's MVP-winning season in 2019 and a top-five MVP finish in 2020 now seem like distant echoes amid the team's continued hardships.
Future Outlook
As Mike Trout faces another extended period of recovery, the Angels must grapple with the formidable financial commitment that his contract entails. With a substantial amount of money still owed to the outfielder, his frequent injuries pose a significant burden, casting doubts on the franchise's future competitiveness. All these elements combine to reinforce the perception of the Los Angeles Angels as one of the most mismanaged franchises in baseball today.