Los Angeles Angels reportedly set to offer Mike Trout lifetime contract
By David Hill
According to reports, the Los Angeles Angels are willing to do whatever it takes to keep Mike Trout in California, to the point of offering him a lifetime contract.
It is easy to understand why the Los Angeles Angels would want to keep Mike Trout. He is a once in a generation talent, a player who, at just 27 years old, compares favorably to the greatest players in baseball history. It is not hyperbole to compare Trout to the likes of Mickey Mantle, a player whose performance will transcend generations.
Understandably, the Angels want to keep Trout around. He had already signed a six year, $145 million extension prior to the 2014 campaign, keeping him in Los Angeles through 2020. However, with his free agency looming ever closer, the Angels are looking come to terms on another extension, as they are reportedly looking to offer Trout a lifetime contract.
As it stands, Trout has quite the impressive resume. Over his eight years in majors, he has produced a .307/.416/.571 batting line, hitting 234 homers and 188 steals. He has made the All Star Game in each of his seven full seasons, winning the 2012 AL Rookie of the Year award and five Silver Slugger awards. A two time AL MVP, Trout has never finished below fourth in the vote.
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From Trout’s perspective, there are plenty of reasons to continue his time with the Angels. He is already the face of the franchise, the greatest player in team history. He can further cement his place as an icon in southern California by signing such an extension, a place that he appears to enjoy playing in.
Yet, Trout may have other concerns. The Angels have reached the postseason just once in his time in the majors, being swept by the Royals in the 2014 ALDS. They have yet to put a pitching staff together, and the news that Shohei Ohtani will undergo Tommy John surgery does not help matters for next year. Can the Angels convince Trout that they can build a winner?
That may prove to be the most critical answer. While the Angels want to keep Trout, they do have several bad contracts that limit their payroll. Albert Pujols is on the books until 2021. Justin Upton is signed through 2022. The Angels already have $112.8 million committed to payroll in 2020 to just five players. How much can the Angels really do to improve their roster going forward?
Next. What could a Mike Trout trade look like?. dark
The Los Angeles Angels are looking to offer Mike Trout a lifetime deal. But can they improve the roster enough to entice him to stay?