AL MVP Trout still has doubts about playing this year

ANAHEIM » Mike Trout rounded third base wearing a white N-95 mask Friday morning as he participated in the Los Angeles Angels first workout of summer camp.

The reigning American League MVP is taking every necessary precaution as he ponders whether he will be the lineup when the season begins in three weeks.

Trout and his wife, Jessica, are expecting the couple’s first child in August. The 28-year old outfielder said his mindset is to play in the virus-delayed, 60-game season, but a lot will hinge on how he feels the next couple weeks

“Honestly, I still don’t feel that comfortable,” he said. “This is a tough time, a tough situation everyone is in. Everybody has a responsibility in this clubhouse. Social distance, stay inside, wear a mask and be safe.”

“If I test positive, I talked to doctors and they said I couldn’t see the baby for 14 days or Jess can’t see the baby for 14 days if she’s positive, we’re going to be upset. I think the biggest issue is keeping Jess safe, the baby safe, obviously me. Coming to the field every day getting tested is huge. I have to be really cautious.”

The three-time AL MVP continues to have discussions with general manager Billy Eppler and manager Joe Maddon. Trout rarely took off his mask and maintained social distancing throughout the twohour workout at Angel Stadium.

Trout said he talks to his wife every night as they continue to figure out what is best. All options remain on the table, including not playing until the baby arrives.

For now, the main thing that Trout and Maddon are stressing is that everyone has to be accountable for their actions.

“Right now we’re all being asked to be the best version of ourselves, the best teammate you’ve ever been in your life,” Maddon said. “Everyone

is talking about the high risk individuals opting out. To me the person who should opt out is the person who does not want to follow the protocols.”

Maddon, in his first season with the Angels after five years with the Chicago Cubs, also said he had a good conversation with Trout last night and that he empathizes with everything he is facing.

“Everybody’s truth matters right now. That’s the one thing I have appealed to our guys,” Maddon said.