Mike Trout Sat Out Angels' Final Game
The Los Angeles Angels excluded Mike Trout from the lineup for the final game of the 2026 season.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Baseball
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Mike Trout did not participate in the final game of the 2026 regular season for the Los Angeles Angels. The decision was made following a discussion involving Trout, who had appeared in each of the five preceding days.
Why it matters
The regular season conclusion marks the end of a campaign in which Trout navigated several physical demands to appear in 142 contests. His absence from the final lineup allowed other players, including Bryce Teodosio in center field, to finish the year.
Mike Trout finished his 2026 campaign with a .242 batting average and an .803 OPS. Over the course of the season, he recorded 26 doubles, 22 home runs, 54 RBIs, and successfully stole 11 bases on 12 attempts.
The players
Mike Trout
Mike Trout is a veteran center fielder for the Los Angeles Angels and a multi-time American League Most Valuable Player.
Los Angeles Angels
The Los Angeles Angels are a Major League Baseball team based in Anaheim that competes in the American League West division.
Bryce Teodosio
Bryce Teodosio is an outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels who started in center field for the team's final game of the 2026 season.
The details
In place of Trout, the Angels utilized Wade Meckler in left field, Joshua Lowe in right field, and Bryce Teodosio in center field, while Zach Neto served as the designated hitter. Trout participated in the decision regarding his absence from the final lineup.
Timeline
Trout achieved his previous season-high in stolen bases in 2019.
Trout played in consecutive games on September 24, 25, and 26, 2026.
The final game of the season took place on September 27, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This decision marks the conclusion of a 2026 season for the Los Angeles Angels that was defined by roster rotation and individual player management. Looking toward the offseason, there is uncertainty regarding potential labor developments like a lockout that could impact league operations.
Fantasy baseball managers should note that Trout finishes the season with 11 steals, his highest total since 2019. The team's use of Bryce Teodosio and other young players in the final game signals an evaluation of depth options for the coming year.
The takeaway
The end of the regular season allows players to recover from the physical toll of a 142-game schedule. Fans should monitor league news throughout the winter to see how potential labor negotiations affect the upcoming year.
Further reading
For more on the current state of the team, visit Baseball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
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