The Angels have demoted top prospect Mike Trout back to Double-A in a move expected to make room for utility player Alexi Amarista.
Entering 2011, Trout checked in as Baseball America’s second overall prospect, behind only Bryce Harper. The 19 year old began the year at Double-A and performed well above his age. Over 75 games, Trout hit at a clip of .324/.415/.534 with 32 extra base hits, 69 runs scored and 28 stolen bases.
His production prompted Los Angeles to give Trout a shot at the major league level after center fielder Peter Bourjos was placed on the disabled list. The teenager has struggled (.492 OPS) during his time in the bigs, and the Angels believe it’s best for Trout to play every day in the minors rather than sit on a major league bench.
Showing no hard feelings for the demotion, Trout himself broke the news this morning with this announcement via Twitter:
"“Back to Little Rock! Had awesome experience up here in Anaheim. Thanks for everything!”"
Amarista has been with the Angels for 20 games in 2011 while spending a majority of the year in Triple-A. During his time in the minors this season, the 22 year old has produced a line of .307/.356/.433 over 52 games.
Amarista will provide LA defensively flexibility off the bench as he’s manned second base and shortstop along with all three outfield positions in Triple-A this year.
For more on the Angels, be sure to check out Halo Hangout.