Mike Trout wins his first American League MVP Award
By Jake Misener
After finishing runner-up to Detroit Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera in each of the past two seasons, Los Angeles Angels phenom Mike Trout finally broke through in this year’s American League Rookie of the Year voting, winning in unanimous fashion after yet-another dominant campaign.
The 23-year-old became the youngest player to ever win the award unanimously and is the fifth-youngest winner in baseball history after he slashed .287/.377/.561 while matching a career-high, appearing in 157 games for a team that posted the best record in the league. He also clubbed 37 home runs, drove in 111 runs and led the American League with 115 runs – although his speed seemed diminished, at times, as he stole just 16 bases. In the past two seasons, his first two full seasons in the big leagues, Trout swiped 49 and 33 bags, respectively.
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He also added 39 doubles, tying a career-high, while leading the Angels to their first postseason berth in several years. His manager, Mike Scioscia, spoke on his young outfielder’s season and his impact on the club in 2014.
"“Mike has had an incredible start to his career,” manager Mike Scioscia said in a statement. “His play this year totally embodies what an MVP is all about. His terrific performance, along with his selfless style of play, has made him a tremendous leader on this team.”"
Trout struggled to make contact at times, as well, fading down the stretch and battling to make contact with high fastballs – which was often exploited, given the general lack of weak spots in the young outfielder’s game. That being said, despite his struggles, his all-out style of play netted him not only MVP honors, but his third-straight Silver Slugger award and an MVP for the 2014 All-Star Game, as well.
"“If you would’ve told me this before the season started, I would’ve just laughed at you,” Trout told MLB Network Thursday. “It’s just an unbelievable feeling.”"