Mike Trout is having a strong start to the season, leading to calls for him to be traded from the Los Angeles Angels. Pundit Stephen A. Smith has publicly urged Trout to consider a move for his career's benefit.
Apr 13, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Los Angeles Angels right fielder Mike Trout (27) reacts after hitting a two run home run, his second of the game, during the eighth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout is off to a blazing start to the season, and as is customary when he’s on a hot streak, the sports world is calling for him to be traded.
Following Trout’s two-homer game against the New York Yankees on Monday, First Take’s Stephen A. Smith became the latest pundit to advocate for the future Hall of Famer’s relocation.
“On behalf of myself and baseball lovers everywhere… Can we call Mike Trout out?” Smith said. “This is one of the greatest talents we have ever seen in the history of baseball. Yo, Mike Trout, we love you man. We can’t get enough of you when you’re healthy, which seems to be rare these days.
“Can you demand a trade? Can you get tired of giving the impression that you’re just chilling in Southern California? The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have not made the postseason since 2014. They haven’t had a winning record since 2015. …You’re gonna always get the money, you’re Mike Trout. Could you demand a trade, please?”
Trout has four homers to go with his 12 RBIs this season, and has a .883 OPS.
Since his debut for the Angels in 2011, Trout has become one of the most iconic players of the era and has set himself apart from the rest of MLB with a fantastic career. He has a career OPS of .975 and reached 400 home runs and 1,000 RBIs last season.
Apr 13, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Los Angeles Angels right fielder Mike Trout (27) reacts after hitting a two run home run, his second of the game, during the eighth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
Trade rumors have surrounded Trout for several seasons, but the Angels seem to want to keep the face of their franchise going forward.
Trout and the Angels will look to bounce back after their ninth-inning loss to the Angels on Monday as they try to return to .500.
What would it take for the Angels to trade Mike Trout?
Pundits like Stephen A. Smith argue that Trout's immense talent is wasted on a struggling team, and a trade could enhance his career prospects.
Trout's two-homer game against the New York Yankees on April 13, 2026, reignited discussions about his potential relocation.
Trout's health issues have been a concern, leading to calls for a trade to ensure he can maximize his talent and impact in a more competitive environment.
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