Mike Trout jokes about struggling to outshine phenomenal Shohei Ohtani on the baseball field
In an interview with MLB Network, Mike Trout spoke highly of teammate Shohei Ohtani as they look to guide the Los Angeles Angels to a successful season this year. Trout also spoke about his mindset and preparations before the game and his growing legacy as he enters his 30s.
Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani are both former American League MVPs. They have taken the field together for the last five years with the Halos when Ohtani moved to Los Angeles from Japan. Both players complement each other as two of the best power hitters in the game, however, their individual success hasn't translated to the Angels making it big.
Regardless, as individual players, both Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani get a lot of media attention. In an interview with MLB Network, Mike Trout was asked about his growing legacy and how he was looking to prepare himself for his time in the league in his 30s. He said:
"Sometimes when you see social media, you know when you get compared to the greats, it is all great stuff but I still love this game, have so much fun doing it, you know the numbers are what they are going to be at the end of the year. Like I said, I go out there with one mindset and tell myself I'm the best player on the field at all times... it's tough sometimes you got Shohei out there. [laughs] But I have had that mindset ever since I was a kid"
Mike Trout comments on Shohei Ohtani's future with the Halos
Mike Trout was also asked whether he has put up any recommendations for Shohei Ohtani as he approaches free agency at the end of the year. Trout said that he would love to have him continue with the Angels and has his eyes set on winning the MLB this season, so there's a stronger reason for the Japanese star to stay on.
"Every single day. We gotta win this year, that will help Io for sure. You know, it's a mindset for him, I don't know what he's thinking. Umm not really talking a crazy amount about his thoughts on his future but I know he is here now and he is working harder to get this team in the playoffs." Trout said.
There is talk going around that the 2021 AL MVP will be drawing contracts from teams in excess of $500 million. Ohtani is currently in arbitration as he signed a $30 million contract with the Angels, the biggest amount given to a player in arbitration in the league's history.