Outlook Mike Trout
Mike Trout Snaps Deep Slump with Power as On-Base Value Remains Safe
Trout remains the everyday starter in center field for the fifth-place Angels (27-42), who are currently navigating a depleted roster with Vaughn Grissom and Jorge Soler on the injured list. Despite snapping a brutal 0-for-22 skid with a home run on June 10, Trout has slumped to a .083 batting average with 10 strikeouts over his last seven days.
While his current .188 batting average over the last 30 days is alarming, Trout's elite plate discipline is still intact, evidenced by 25 walks and a solid .355 on-base percentage in that span. Our models project 24 home runs and an .815 OPS rest of season, suggesting his power and run-scoring output will remain highly valuable despite the batting average risk.
With the week already underway, the Angels close out their schedule with a home series against Tampa Bay, featuring a difficult matchup against ace Shane McClanahan (2.85 ERA) before facing the more vulnerable Griffin Jax (4.17 ERA). Despite the tough pitching and recent slump, his elite power potential makes him impossible to bench. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
Latest News Mike Trout
Outlook Casey Schmitt
Casey Schmitt's power surge makes him a must-roster utility asset
Schmitt has been on a tear, swatting three home runs and driving in five runs over his last seven games for the fourth-place Giants. His elite defensive versatility has kept his bat in the lineup daily, especially with outfield injuries locking him in as an everyday starter.
While our models projected a modest eight home runs for the season, Schmitt has already blown past that with a career-high 15 longballs in 2026. His current .276 average is a substantial leap from his career mark of .237 in 2025, suggesting minor regression may lie ahead, but the breakout is largely legitimate.
The Giants finish their week at home against the Cubs, offering a mixed bag of matchups. Schmitt will face a tough test Friday against Ben Brown and his stingy 1.74 ERA, but Sunday brings an excellent opportunity against Colin Rea's 5.37 ERA. Weekly Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
