ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Watching Angels' All-Star outfielder Mike Trout maneuvering through his pregame preparation can best be described in one word: intense.
Whether it's putting on his uniform or getting ready to take batting practice, the 22-year-old is doing it with a purpose. The two-time team MVP obviously has a place he goes where most of us have never been, explaining why greatness engulfed him from the moment he became a full-time major league player.
Although he's one of the nicest and most likeable players in a clubhouse full of good guys, you couldn't really tell by just watching him go through his daily routine. Sure, every once in a while you'll see him laugh and joke around, but most of the time you get the impression that the word "lighthearted" will never be used in describing last year's AL Rookie of the Year.
You'd be wrong.
Earlier this week, Trout spent some time at a meet and greet with sponsors and winners of a contest put on by sports nutritional drink BodyArmor. (Trout is a spokesperson for the product, and according to sports business reporter Darren Rovell, the Halos outfielder will receive a small equity share in the company. Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck reportedly has the same type of deal). If you couldn't see Trout's face, you wouldn't believe this was the guy who takes intensity to another level every day.
He was smiling continuously and having his picture taken with everyone; the kids wearing the No. 27 Trout jersey shirt (provided to the raffle winners by BodyArmor) and the sponsors who stopped by to meet greatness. As he made his way around the room, he made the day for over 100 people.
He said despite his intense demeanor at the ballpark, he's just a normal kid from a normal family, who not too long ago was rooting for his favorite team: the Philadelphia Phillies.
"I really like meeting the fans," said Trout, "because without them none of what happens for us as players can taken place. And something like this is great because not only do I get to spend some time with the people who support me, I also have a chance to get word out about BodyArmor.
"This isn't your typical energy drink. It's more natural and has a lot of electrolytes and vitamins in it. For a guy like me who runs around all the time, it helps keep me from cramping up.
"I'm really happy to be part of the (BodyArmor) team."
He says that he's still happy to be part of the Angels as well, despite the fact that this will be the fourth straight season in which they'll watch the playoffs on TV.
"Sure it's disappointing because the reason we all play the game is to try to get to the playoffs and win the World Series," Trout said. "It's been tough to go through this again, but I'm sure the front office will make moves during the offseason that will put us right back in the playoffs next season. I really believe it. We have the talent for the most part, we just have to make a few moves and we'll be fine."
