LOS ANGELES — Mike Trout won’t play in the All-Star Game, but the Angels slugger has his sights set on the second half of the season and the World Baseball Classic.
Trout will captain the United States at this Classic next year. He announced it Monday on the eve of the All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium.
“It means a lot to me,” Trout said. I missed my chance the first time around and didn’t want to let the opportunity pass this time around.
“I can’t wait to represent my country.”
Trout was also placed on the 10-day injured list with inflammation in his left rib cage. He has missed the last four games for the Angels with back pain.
The gesture being retroactive to July 12, he could return to play on Saturday in Atlanta.
A member of 10 all-star teams, Trout is hitting .270 this season, with 24 homers and 51 RBIs.
Joe Reedy, The Associated Press
