Trout expects to be 'wearing an Angels uniform next spring'
Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout doesn't sound like a player who wants to suit up for another team.
"I go through this every year," Trout said when asked if he's certain he wants to stay with the Angels, according to Sarah Valenzuela of the Los Angeles Times. "There's private conversations I have with (owner) Arte (Moreno) and (president) John (Carpino). And like I said, I'm doing the same thing I did the last, what? Thirteen years. Going into the offseason, (I'm) clearing my mind and getting ready for spring and wearing an Angels uniform next spring."
The Angels reportedly would entertain a deal involving the three-time AL MVP if he requests a trade, as teammate and fellow superstar Shohei Ohtani is primed to hit free agency at the conclusion of the 2023 campaign.
"I got seven years left on the contract," Trout added. "I know there's a lot speculation out there. ... Like I said, I come in after every year, sit back two-to-three weeks, enjoy (time) with my family, clear my mind, and then have a conversation with the front office. Nothing's changed."
Trout was very frustrated about a hand/wrist injury that limited the 11-time All-Star to one game after July 3, according to Valenzuela. He said the ailment has been the hardest for him amid all the injuries he's dealt with over the last few years.
The 32-year-old fractured his hamate bone in his left wrist in early July. He returned Aug. 22 but ended up on the injured list two days later. The Angels ruled him out for the rest of the season Sunday.
Trout was limited to just 82 games this campaign, slashing .263/.367/.490 with 18 homers and 44 RBIs during his 13th season with the Angels. He's logged a combined 237 contests over the last three years due to multiple injuries.
Los Angeles hasn't made the playoffs since 2014, which marks the only three postseason contests Trout has played in his entire career.