The baseball world was shocked and saddened by the news of the death of one of its brightest stars, Mike Trout, who died in a car accident on September 25, 2023. The 31-year-old outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels was driving on a highway near his home in Newport Beach, California, when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a guardrail. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the California Highway Patrol.
A Legendary Career Cut Short
Trout was widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation, and one of the greatest of all time. He made his major league debut in 2011, and quickly established himself as a superstar. He won the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2012, and went on to win three Most Valuable Player awards, eight All-Star selections, seven Silver Slugger awards, and two Hank Aaron awards. He also won the All-Star Game MVP award twice, in 2014 and 2015.
Trout was known for his exceptional skills in all aspects of the game, including hitting, fielding, baserunning, and throwing. He had a career batting average of .305, with 310 home runs, 817 RBIs, and 224 stolen bases. He also had a career WAR (wins above replacement) of 76.1, which ranks sixth among all position players in MLB history. He led the league in several offensive categories multiple times, such as runs scored, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and OPS (on-base plus slugging).
Trout signed a 12-year, $426.5 million contract extension with the Angels in 2019, making him the highest-paid player in baseball history. He was loyal to the team that drafted him in 2009, despite their lack of success in reaching the postseason. He only played in one playoff series in his career, in 2014, when the Angels were swept by the Kansas City Royals in the AL Division Series.
Tributes Pour In from Around the World
The news of Trout’s death sent shockwaves across the sports world and beyond. Many fellow players, former teammates, coaches, managers, executives, fans, celebrities, and politicians expressed their condolences and paid tribute to his legacy on social media and in interviews.
Some of the notable messages included:
- “I’m at a loss for words right now. Mike was more than just a teammate, he was a brother to me. He was always there for me, on and off the field. He was an amazing person, a great leader, and a true friend. I can’t believe he’s gone. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, brother. I love you.” – Shohei Ohtani, Angels pitcher and designated hitter
- “Mike Trout was a once-in-a-lifetime talent who transcended the game of baseball. He was not only a phenomenal player, but also a humble and generous human being who inspired millions of fans around the world. He represented our sport with class and dignity, and embodied the values of excellence, integrity, and respect. His passing is a devastating loss for the entire baseball community. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and fans.” – Rob Manfred, MLB commissioner
- “I’m heartbroken by the news of Mike Trout’s passing. He was one of my favorite players to watch and compete against. He had such a passion and joy for the game that was contagious. He was also a great ambassador for baseball and a role model for kids everywhere. He will be sorely missed by everyone who loves this game. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the Angels organization.” – Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder
- “Mike Trout was an extraordinary athlete who brought excitement and joy to millions of fans across America and around the world. He was also a wonderful person who gave back to his community and supported many worthy causes. He exemplified the best of our nation’s spirit and character. Michelle and I join his family, friends, teammates, and fans in mourning his tragic loss.” – Barack Obama, former U.S. president
A Legacy That Will Live On
Trout’s death has left a huge void in the baseball world that will be hard to fill. He was widely admired and respected by his peers and fans alike for his talent, work ethic, personality, and generosity. He was also a loving husband to his wife Jessica Cox Trout, whom he married in 2017