The record-breaking signing of Mike Trout could not have been more understated and circumspect. His National League counterparts, Manny Machado and Bryce Harper, had the allure of an Alfred Hitchcock thriller, keeping the baseball world on the edge of its seat. Where will they sign? For how much?
While Machado and Harper held out, hoping for historic contracts, Mike Trout complacently played both of them. In the most discreet, low key way possible, Trout would opt for familiarity. He would sign a 12-year, $432 million contract with his current Los Angeles Angels team. It’s the largest deal in sports history, given to a superstar baseball player with a low profile. There was no buzz or Hollywood-style Twitter threads that you would see with football counterparts.
Mike Trout let’s the baseball do the talking. And it earned him a contract that was $100 million more than Bryce Harper, and overtaking Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zach Greinke’s average annual salary of $34.5 million.
“He deserves that, and more,’’ Chicago Cubs All-Star Kris Bryant said. “He has been the best player in our game for a long time.’’
An Inside Look at Trout’s Hall of Fame Career
When Mike Trout was drafted in 2009, no one could have predicted the historical trajectory he would end up travelling on. In the 2011 season, at a mere 19 years of age, he would be a starter for the Angels. While most young baseball players would be grinding it out in the minor leagues, Trout would win the AL Rookie of the Year at 20 years old, hitting .326/.399/.564, with 30 home runs and 83 RBI’s.
A once in a generation talent, Trout has not only mastered the “five tool” persona. He is the benchmark that younger players aspire to become in their careers. In 1,065 games played (ranked below the Top 10 in Los Angeles Angels history), Trout has a career .307/.416/.573 with 240 home runs, 1187 hits and 648 RBI’s.
A seven time all-star and two-time AL MVP, Trout is first in his team’s career WAR (64.3), OBP (.416), third in BA (.307), Triples (44), HR (240), and fifth in RBI’s (648). All at the age of 27 years old.
The Uniqueness of Trout’s Brand
It makes sense why the Angels organization were incentivized to keep their superstar. They have an overwhelming supply of talented minor league players. Angels owner Arte Moreno locked down a $3 billion TV deal, which is sure to experience boosted ratings with Trout staying in Los Angeles.
The calmness of Mike Trout is one many celebrities should aspire to emulate. He doesn’t stir up controversy or address fans who don’t like him.
Trout’s brand is one built on humbleness and generosity to the community. On top of this, he also fulfills his deep passion for the game of baseball. While MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred may be interested in players growing their brands, Mike Trout lets his stellar play on and off the field speak for itself.
“We applaud him for prioritizing his personal values over commercial self-promotion,” the Angels organization said. “That is rare in today’s society and stands out as much as his extraordinary talent.”
Trout Needs to Bring Championship to LA
The last and only time the Angels were World Series Champions was 2002. Mike Schosia was the manager. The team was called the Anaheim Angels. They beat the San Francisco Giants in an epic seven game series.
The difference now is while they have their superstar locked up for the rest of his career, it’s time to invest in building the team around him. Shohei Ohtani, the AL Rookie of the Year sensation, who can bat and pitch, is looking to have a solid sophomore season. With Albert Pujols past his prime, the Angels should be looking to invest in hitters that will complement Trout. And strengthening the bullpen does not hurt, in a league that has become so hyper focused on this aspect of the game.
While many on the East coast wont be able to see Trout play due to time change, that’s just the way he likes it. The Bryce Harper signing to the Philadelphia Phillies did not influence the two-time MVP to go back to his hometown.
But in order for the money to be worth it, Trout needs a championship. The numbers alone are Hall of Fame worthy. But a championship cements a legacy into the annals of baseball history. As a member of the Angels, Trout has only been in the postseason once. With added pressure comes greater opportunities for Trout to perform at a high level. For the superstar outfielder to exceed the expectations bestowed onto the holder of the largest contract in sports.
Appreciate the Magnitude of Mike Trout
With Mike Trout set to have another successful season, it is hard not to ponder if he can reach another level. Entering the prime of his career, one thing is certain; Trout won’t disappoint. His love affair with baseball will continue into eternity.
The baseball world can only watch with awe as we witness a player that when it’s all said and done, should be put into the same conversation as Babe Ruth and Ted Williams.
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