MLB Network recently shared its list of the top 100 players in the league, and Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout was ranked 39th. This is the lowest position he has ever held in his career. Interestingly, he was not included in the rankings before 2012, as he wasn’t classified as a rookie until then, despite making his MLB debut in 2011.
Since winning the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2012, Trout consistently ranked in the top two from 2013 to 2022, including eight seasons where he claimed the top spot. However, he slipped to third in 2023 and then fell to 12th in 2024. Now, heading into 2025, his ranking has dropped to 39.
Trout, who typically avoids social media, mentioned that he’s aware of the ranking. “They’re going off the last couple years and I haven’t been out there,” he said. He understands the reasoning behind the ranking but also knows his own abilities. When prompted about whether this would motivate him, he answered, “Oh yeah. … Stuff like that I think fires you up a little bit.”
His drop in ranking isn’t surprising, considering Trout’s recent injury history. He tore his meniscus early in the 2024 season, which sidelined him for the rest of the year and caused him to miss the All-Star Game for the first time in his career. Before his injury, Trout was among the leaders in home runs, showing his power early in the season. Unfortunately, he has struggled with injuries over the last few years, missing significant playing time each season. The 2024 season was particularly tough, as it marked the lowest number of games he has played in a single year.
To help manage his injuries, Trout will transition from center field to right field this coming season. The Angels hope this move will allow him to stay healthier. If he can stay on the field and regain his all-star form, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him climb back into the top 10 rankings soon.