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Both Mike Trout and Bryce Harper quickly established themselves as stars early into their MLB careers. While Harper was the more highly-touted prospect coming in, fans quickly became accustomed to Trout's excellence.
However, over the last few seasons, Trout has experienced injury after injury. Just this year alone, he has had two surgeries on his left knee and only played 29 games this season.
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Trout has hinted at the possibility of him returning next season with less responsibilities. He could become a designated hitter next season or be limited in how many games he plays, which saddens The Athletic's Katie Woo. She spoke of the possible position switch on a recent airing of Baseball Today with Chris Rose.
"I get where he's coming from. It's been brutal the last couple of seasons for Mike Trout and the various injuries. But, it just makes me sad as a baseball fan to think that one of the best talents we'll see in today's game is going to be limited to the point where he can only play half the time," Woo said.
Not only would this be a big disappointment to baseball fans, but it would also greatly hurt the Los Angeles Angels. Trout is the face of their franchise and looks like a shell of themselves when he is not in the lineup.
"He's not old but his body is and it stinks, and it's not fun, and I hate every aspect of it, and the Angels are in danger of having their worst season ever," Rose said.
Meanwhile, Harper has played 134 games, hitting .290/.377/.533 with 28 home runs and 82 runs batted in. He has been a big reason as to why the Philadelphia Phillies hold control in the NL East.
"While Bryce Harper's star continues to shine, Mike Trout is several exits back" Rose said.
Bryce Harper shines while Mike Trout watches from the sidelines
All eyes are on Bryce Harper as he and the Phillies look to secure the NL East and a postseason spot. Postseason appearances have become quite common for Harper, while they have not been for Mike Trout.
Trout has only appeared in three postseason games throughout his career. That is a long way off from Harper's 49 games, and counting.
Trout's absence from the postseason has been a huge bummer for baseball fans. When looking back at his career, that and the constant injuries will remain a major talking point.
