Mike Trout has welcomed the sale of the Los Angeles Angels to Rams owner Stan Kroenke, expressing optimism for a fresh start for the franchise. Trout addressed the blockbuster sale on Tuesday, acknowledging the need for a change and offering a gracious farewell to longtime owner Arte Moreno.
"I mean, you kind of felt that way. It was needed," Trout said. "No bad things, no hard feelings against Arte. But yeah, no, I’m super excited. The guys are excited. There’s a good vibe around the clubhouse, vibe around the stadium, and we’re all excited."
Trout, a three-time American League MVP, emphasized his positive relationship with Moreno, who he noted took a chance on him as a 17-year-old prospect. However, Trout also took steps to gather information on the incoming owner, reaching out to a Rams player for a scouting report on Kroenke.
"I reached out to one Ram player," Trout said, adding that teammate Zach Neto had playfully exaggerated the extent of their reconnaissance. "I’m not going to drop any names, but I spoke to one, and he had some really good things to say."
Kroenke's ownership portfolio includes championship teams in the NFL (Rams), NBA (Nuggets), and NHL (Avalanche), which Trout sees as a positive sign for an Angels franchise that has not reached the postseason since 2014. Despite speculation that an ownership change could make a Trout trade more conceivable, the star player indicated no desire to leave, with four years remaining on his contract.
"No, it doesn’t change," Trout said when asked if Moreno’s departure affected his loyalty. "I got four years left on my deal. I’m excited. Look, the track record, it’s there."
Fans have previously expressed dissatisfaction with Moreno's ownership, with "Sell the team" chants heard at Angel Stadium earlier in the season. Trout appears ready to embrace the new era under Kroenke.
However, Trout drew a firm line regarding his personal loyalties, stating he would not embrace Kroenke's NFL team, the Rams.
"I will not," Trout said when asked if the new owner might finally get him to wear a Rams hat. The South Jersey native has been a devoted Eagles fan since childhood and is a season-ticket holder who frequently attends their games.
Despite his strong NFL allegiance, Trout seems poised to see what Kroenke can build with the Angels.