MLB Network released its annual Top 100 Players list earlier this month, with Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout ranked at No. 39—the lowest ranking of his career. Trout was previously left off the list before the 2012 season after debuting in 2011, as he wasn’t officially considered a rookie until 2012.
Since winning the AL Rookie of the Year in 2012, Trout consistently ranked in the top two from 2013 to 2022, including eight seasons at No. 1. He dropped to No. 3 in 2023 and No. 12 in 2024, remaining a top-15 player. However, heading into 2025, he has fallen to 39th.
While Trout typically avoids social media, he acknowledged seeing the ranking on Wednesday. “They’re going off the last couple years, and I haven’t been out there,” Trout said. “That’s their ranking—I know where I stand.”
When asked if his No. 39 ranking provided extra motivation, Mike Trout responded, “Oh yeah… Stuff like that fires you up a little bit.”
Trout’s drop in the rankings isn’t surprising given his recent injury struggles. A torn meniscus just a month into the 2024 season sidelined him for the remainder of the year, causing him to miss the MLB All-Star Game for the first time in his career. Before the injury, Trout was among the league leaders in home runs, but staying on the field has been his biggest challenge, as he has missed significant time in each of the last four seasons. The 2024 campaign marked the fewest games he has played in a single season.
To help mitigate injuries, the Angels are moving Trout from center field to right field this season. If Trout can stay healthy and regain his All-Star form in 2025, a return to the top 10 in MLB rankings wouldn’t be surprising.