Why Did Mike Trout, Baseball’s Top Talent, Begin to Fade?

Mike Trout, widely regarded as one of baseball’s greatest talents, has seen a notable decline in performance and visibility in recent seasons. This article examines the key factors behind his fading prominence, including injury struggles, the Los Angeles Angels' prolonged playoff absence, and changes within Major League Baseball.

Early Career and Rise to Fame

Trout burst onto the scene with the Los Angeles Angels in 2011, quickly proving himself as a generational talent. He won the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2012 and earned multiple MVP awards afterward. His early career stats highlighted his dominance on the field.

Record Contract and Expectations

In 2019, Trout signed a 12-year, $426 million contract with the Angels, which was the largest in North American sports history at the time. This deal underscored the Angels' commitment to him and raised fan expectations for a playoff resurgence.

Injury Challenges Since 2019

Trout has suffered recurring injuries that have limited his availability.
In 2021, a calf strain caused him to miss 122 games.
Back problems in 2022 further restricted his playing time.

"Despite his early success, Trout's physical condition has become a major obstacle in recent years."

Impact Beyond the Field

Trout’s absence due to injuries has coincided with the Angels' ongoing struggles to make the playoffs, diminishing both his visibility and the team’s competitiveness. The dynamic nature of MLB also poses new challenges for veteran stars like Trout.

Author's Summary

Mike Trout's decline stems from a combination of significant injuries and his team's playoff drought, which together have diminished his once-dominant presence in baseball.

Sohu — 2025-11-06