Nolan Arenado and Mike Trout are both some of the game’s biggest talents. Turn on any highlight reel of any week in the season and I’m willing to bet that at least one or both players are in it making inhuman plays.
Both players will turn 30 next season and have accomplished so much. Trout has undoubtedly been the best player in the league for almost a decade and is in the GOAT conversation. Arenado is the best defensive third baseman in the game and is quickly climbing up the all-time third basemen list. There’s no need to dive deep into them individually; we know their level of greatness.
When it comes to team success, it’s been a different story. Obviously, their teams’ rosters are out of their control. But there’s a parallel between these two in that they are some of the biggest stars in the league and have a combined postseason record of 1-7 in only three appearances. How is it that two of the biggest stars in the sport can’t get to October more often?
The franchises
Los Angeles Angels — After their first World Series win in 2002, the Angels enjoyed five more postseason runs in the 2000’s, easily their most successful decade in franchise history. But since Trout was called up to the Angels in 2011, the Angels have only had four winning seasons (‘11, ’12, ’14, ’15) and one postseason appearance where they were swept in the ALDS.
Much of their lack of success is because of their inability to build a dependable starting rotation and a series of failed expensive signings. The Albert Pujols that has played for the Angels has been a shell of who they expected when they signed him to a 10 year, $240 million contract in 2012. Then there was Josh Hamilton, who signed a five-year deal worth $125 million but only gave the Angels two years before substance abuse led to his downfall.
The Angels have tried to field a contender for Trout every year but have failed every time. Just recently they fired their GM Billy Eppler in hopes of finding someone who can take advantage of Trout’s prime.
Colorado Rockies — The Rockies have only made the postseason five times in their short franchise history, making it to October only twice with Arenado in 2017 and 2018. Like Trout’s Angels, the Arenado-led Rockies were swept in the division series.
After back-to-back playoff runs, expectations were high but the decision to let DJ LeMahieu go and poor bullpen signings led to two straight losing seasons. Unlike the Angels, no front office changes have been made at this time — even though there is a clear rift between Arenado and GM Jeff Bridich.
The future
Both players have expressed their desire to win and contend every year. Both are locked into long term contracts, except Arenado has a 2021 opt out as leverage he can use to leave Colorado if he feels they aren’t trending towards contending.
The Rockies haven’t been contending and Arenado could be on the move this offseason to a team of his approval because of a full no-trade clause in his contract. If there is no path for him to win in Colorado, he’s made it clear he will move on. His legacy is in his own hands now.
Trout has remained committed to the Angels for now. He doesn’t have the luxury of an opt-out like Arenado, but the Angels are going to keep trying to get him some help and Trout has no other option but to play with what he’s given. His legacy is in the hands of their new decision maker.
Which one will win a title first, or at least get closest to a title? Or will both of these generational talents go to waste? Sound off below!
Poll
Which player makes it deeper into the postseason?
This poll is closed
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57%
Mike Trout
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42%
Nolan Arenado
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Colorado Rockies: The good pitching stats from 2020 | Roxpile
A positive read at the good things the pitching group did this season: standouts included Germán Márquez, Antonio Senzatela, Daniel Bard and Yency Almonte.
A closer look at Scott Oberg as he recovers from blood clotting issues in his right arm. Oberg goes into detail on the methods done to prevent future issues and the emotional toll the process has been. He will continue to work on getting his range of motion back and plans to start throwing after Thanksgiving. On top of that, he also gives his thoughts on the Rockies 2020 season.
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