Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Mike Trout decided to take a more aggressive approach on the bases this season. Formerly a stolen base threat, Trout longed for his glory days and expressed frustration at the effects of new rules limiting base stealing. The Angels ranked last in the AL in stolen bases last year but now rank third under new manager Ron Washington and first base coach Bo Porter, who have emphasized a more aggressive baserunning strategy. Trout himself confirmed a focus on aggressive baserunning in their 2024 game plan.
Trout set a goal of 20-plus stolen bases this season, expressing a desire to rekindle his base-stealing prowess. He acknowledged holding back on the bases in the past to avoid injuries and now believes that a cautious approach could lead to worse outcomes. Trout’s speed remains a standout feature, with his sprint speed ranking in the 91st percentile this year among players age 30 or older.
Utilizing his speed, Trout has already accumulated 1.5 baserunning runs (BsR), the fifth highest in the AL. His baserunning success this season has been evident in his stolen base and triple numbers, with five steals in five attempts and two triples already this year. Trout’s aggressive baserunning contributes to his overall impact on the field, with his attempt rate above average being the tenth highest among qualified players thus far in 2024.
With Trout’s current pace, he has the potential for a 30-30 season, aiming for 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases. While achieving this milestone is challenging, Trout’s skill set and track record make it a feasible goal if he stays healthy. Despite early-season success in stealing bases in the past, Trout has experienced a decrease in stolen base production as seasons progress. However, his current aggressive approach on the bases and solid performance this season indicate a promising outlook for a potential 30-30 season.
Trout’s blend of speed and power sets him apart as one of the best players in baseball, with his current baserunning success reflecting his commitment to a more aggressive approach on the bases in 2024.
