The Los Angeles Angels recently announced that superstar Mike Trout will be moving from center field to right field to help preserve his health. With Trout shifting positions, the Angels now have an opening in center field, and the top contenders for the role are Jo Adell and Mickey Moniak.
Both Adell and Moniak are prepared to take over in center field for the 2025 season, with the expectation that they will split the majority of playing time as Trout transitions to right field.
Adell, who has experience playing multiple positions, is eager for the opportunity.
“We’re doing everything we can to keep [Trout] on the field, and I’ll do whatever is needed to make that happen,” Adell told MLB.com’s Rhett Bollinger. “Switching positions isn’t new for me, so I’m ready for the challenge. Center field was the position I played growing up, even through the Draft, so I’m excited to get back out there.”
Moniak, on the other hand, is open to playing anywhere in the outfield, giving manager Ron Washington flexibility in shaping the lineup.
“I came in ready to play all three [outfield spots], so wherever Wash puts me,” Moniak said. “Since my time in low-A with the Phillies, they wanted me to be comfortable at all three positions, and that’s how I’ve approached my career.”
As for who will see the most action in center, Washington is keeping his options open.
“I think we’ll just see how it plays out,” Washington said. “We know both of them can handle it. We’re going to take a close look at Adell this spring and give him more reps out there. Moniak has already shown he can play center, so we’ll let spring training determine how it all shakes out.”
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