Angels’ Mike Trout Moving Back to Center Field in 2026

Mike Trout met with reporters in Tempe and said he wants to play center field again this season. Last year, he spent a lot of time in right and as the designated hitter to protect his health.

He feels more at home in center. Trout thinks the position is actually easier on his body, which might sound odd, but he’s convinced. He dropped five or six pounds this winter—just to take a little pressure off his legs.

Angels manager Kurt Suzuki said Trout asked for the move. During spring training, they’ll try him out at all three outfield spots to see what fits. Trout mentioned he’ll keep talking with Suzuki about rest days, since he’s not totally sure how demanding center will be.

Trout’s Center-Field Return Plan

Trout’s plan isn’t just about comfort. He’s looking for a way to stay healthy and help the Angels score more runs.

He claims center field is actually less brutal on his legs over a long season, especially after last year’s position changes. The team will keep an eye on him in the outfield during spring, making sure he’s ready to go each day.

Suzuki confirmed Trout started this conversation himself. They’re aiming for a flexible, game-by-game approach on rest days.

If everything goes right, Trout in center could really stabilize the defense. Jo Adell and Josh Lowe—who just joined the team—would cover the corners. Jorge Soler probably sticks at designated hitter, which is where he’s looked best.

The Angels have backup plans, too. Bryce Teodosio or non-roster invitee José Siri could jump in for late-inning defense. If Trout slides to a corner, those guys can handle center, depending on the matchup.

Outfield Alignment and Depth

The center-field decision isn’t just about Trout. It changes how the whole outfield looks.

If Trout holds down center, Adell and Lowe can settle into the corners. Soler gets to focus on hitting, but he can play the outfield here and there if needed.

There’s a safety net with Teodosio and Siri. They’re ready for late-inning defense if Trout needs a break or moves to a corner.

Depth is a bigger deal now, especially after the Angels traded Taylor Ward and lost some power. The team wants to see how all these pieces work together this spring. They’re trying to get the most out of their defense and keep things flexible late in games.

Offensive Outlook and Spring Training Adjustments

Offense is still a big question. Trout’s bat matters a ton, especially after losing Ward.

He hit 26 homers with a .797 OPS in 2025, but his career OPS is a wild .976. That shows how much upside he still has if he can keep his swing in a good place.

Trout said he made some tweaks to his swing late last season and stuck with that work all offseason. The coaches are on board, so maybe he can get back to his best.

He also sounded a little bummed about missing the World Baseball Classic because of insurance issues. That tournament would’ve given him more reps, but it just didn’t work out.

The Angels added utilityman Adam Frazier on a minor-league deal for more infield options. Spring camp looks crowded, with pitching prospects and veterans fighting for spots.

All that competition should help Trout’s support system. It gives Suzuki more options as he figures out playing time and how to build the lineup.

Supporting Cast and Spring Camp Competition

• Adam Frazier signed a minor-league deal to boost infield depth. He gives the team more options for matchups.
• Spring camp has pitching prospects and veteran arms battling for roster spots. It’s a crowded, lively competition.
• Bryce Teodosio and non-roster invitee José Siri can handle late-inning defense in center if Trout moves to a corner. That helps keep the defense balanced overall.

 
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