By Chris Douthat
Had Bryce Harper decided to stay in school, Mike Trout would be without question the top prospect in the game. A first round draft choice in 2009 by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Trout has the makings of an elite player. Listed as 6’1 and 217 lb., the outfielder has people talking with his exceptional play.
Had Bryce Harper decided to stay in school, Mike Trout would be without question the top prospect in the game. A first round draft choice in 2009 by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Trout has the makings of an elite player. Listed as 6’1 and 217 lb., the outfielder has people talking with his exceptional play. Only 19, Trout split 2010 with Cedar Rapids (A) and Rancho Cucamonga (A+), where he hit .341, with 28 doubles, 9 triples, 10 HR, and 58 RBI. Trout also managed to swipe 56 bases and walk 73 times, showcasing his plus speed and ability to pick out good pitches from bad.
Scouts are impressed by Trout’s fielding. Said former Texas Rangers scout Frankie Piliere:
“Trout is a very natural center fielder. He takes charge, and does all the things you like to see in terms of range and arm. His arm is just about average, but he has made some accurate, on-line throws to third base and was able to carry the mound on medium-depth fly balls to center.”
Given his age, position, and ability to hit, the Angels have every right to be excited about Trout, as he has the makings of an all-around elite player. If all goes well, Trout could make a case for the starting job mid-2012 or at the start of the 2013 season. And who knows, given the ages and health concerns of Torii Hunter, Bobby Abreu, and Vernon Wells, we could very well see him sooner. Either way, the future is incredibly bright for this young man.
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