Austin Konenski
The start of the 2026 MLB season has been up and down for Mike Trout, but the Los Angeles Angels outfielder is starting to heat up. On Monday, April 13, Trout hit two home runs against the New York Yankees. It has put the 34-year-old outfielder back in the mainstream media, and Stephen A. Smith wasn’t afraid to share his thoughts.
On Tuesday morning, Smith was on ESPN’s First Take talking about Trout and Aaron Judge each hitting two home runs. While pivoting to the Angels outfielder, the ESPN personality called for him to change teams.
“I’m going to dedicate this quick take to my man Jeff, who lives out here in California,” Smith said on ESPN First Take. “Can we call Mike Trout out? This is one of the greatest talents we’ve ever seen in the history of baseball. Yo, Mike Trout. We love you, man. We can’t get enough of watching you … can you demand a trade?”
Smith went on to discuss Los Angeles’ lack of success with Trout in the organization, urging him to join a team capable of making the MLB postseason. The Angels made the ALDS during the 2014 MLB season, but were swept by the Kansas City Royals. Trout was 1-for-12 with a solo home run.
At 34 years old, Trout still has time to make the MLB postseason one more time. Trout is one of the greatest talents in baseball history, but injuries and the Angels’ lack of success haven’t taken him to the next level. Smith wants Trout to take that step before its too late.
Trout has spent his entire career with the Angels, but if he wants to play postseason baseball, Smith believes it may have to be elsewhere.
Read More: 6 Top MLB Prospects Off to Hot Starts in 2026
