Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout is officially heading to his 10th career All-Star Game as he was selected as an American League starter on Friday. But, this time around, it feels a little bit more special for Trout since the festivities are just down the road from Anaheim at Dodger Stadium.
Via Jeff Fletcher of the San Gabriel Valley Tribune:
“It’s special,” Trout said. “It means a lot. Obviously, it’s a fan vote, so it’s a special honor. It’s a fun couple days, especially since it’s in L.A. this year, so it’s pretty close to home.”
Although Mike Trout isn't having the best season of his life, he did receive a fair share of votes from fans. Trout was one of four players vying for the two spots to play alongside New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge. Trout and Giancarlo Stanton were ultimately elected.
In 75 games this season, the veteran is batting .265 with 23 home runs and a .967 OPS. Trout just declined an invitation to the Home Run Derby as well. He's yet to participate in the event, despite being asked by the MLB on numerous occasions.
Mike Trout will be joined by teammate Shohei Ohtani on the AL All-Star Team. The Japanese two-way star isn't exactly shining offensively this season, but his popularity in Japan and US helped him get a ton of fan votes.
Trout is struggling immensely in July so far, hitting an atrocious .045 in six contests. Hopefully, he can turn things around before the All-Star Game on Tuesday, July 19th, and put on a show for the Angels fans who will likely make the trip up the highway to see their franchise cornerstone.