How Mike Trout Was 'Left Behind' As Shohei Ohtani Wins Two Rings
Mike Trout's Postseason Drought
Mike Trout has not played in a postseason game since 2014, which is currently the longest active drought for a player of his talent. As the three-time MVP approaches the latter part of his career with the Los Angeles Angels, his postseason absence remains a notable mark.
Remarkable Career Achievements
- Trout holds an 87.5 WAR, the highest for any modern player who hasn't won a playoff game.
- He signed a 12-year contract extension worth $426 million in March 2019. The agreement, at the time, was the largest in North American sports. Approximately $190 million remains, keeping him under contract until 2030.
Team Performance and Playoff Record
The Los Angeles Angels have not reached the playoffs since being swept by Kansas City in the 2014 ALDS. The franchise has not celebrated a postseason win since 2009, which was also the year Trout entered the major leagues.
Trout's Commitment to the Angels
Multiple sources told The Athletic that Trout would never request a trade from the Angels, calling it "the easy way out."
"I've got (five) more years on the contract," Trout told The Athletic in September. "I feel like I've got a lot left in my tank. And I know when it's right, I can be the best."
Shohei Ohtani's Success After Anaheim
After six years as Trout's teammate, Shohei Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in December 2023. Ohtani has since won World Series championships in both seasons following his departure from the Angels.
- Trout and Ohtani were both in the Angels’ lineup together in about 46.6 percent of games over six seasons.
- During those years, the team recorded a 194-211 record when both were available to play.
Author's Summary
As Shohei Ohtani claims back-to-back World Series titles with the Dodgers, Mike Trout remains loyal to the Angels, still seeking another postseason chance.