Angels' Mike Trout Calls Out Risky Pitching Strategy After HBP

Trout exits game after being hit by pitch, criticizes Mariners' lack of control

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:40am

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Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout was forced to exit Sunday's game against the Seattle Mariners after being hit by a pitch on his left shoulder. Trout expressed frustration towards the Mariners' pitching strategy, saying that if they can't control their pitches, they shouldn't be throwing high fastballs that put players at risk of injury.

Why it matters

Trout is a key player for the Angels, and any injury setbacks could further derail his season and the team's playoff hopes. His comments highlight the ongoing debate around pitcher safety and the risks of high-velocity, high-location pitches, especially against star hitters like Trout who are vulnerable to such pitches due to declining bat speed.

The details

In the eighth inning, Mariners reliever Casey Legumina hit Trout with a pitch on his left shoulder, causing the Angels star to grimace in pain. Trout ended up exiting the game, with Oswald Peraza pinch-running for him. After the Angels' 8-7 extra-inning win, Trout criticized Legumina's poor pitch execution, saying 'If you can't control it up there, you shouldn't do it.'

  • The incident occurred in the eighth inning of the Angels-Mariners game on Sunday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Mike Trout

A star outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels who has missed significant time in recent seasons due to injuries.

Casey Legumina

A relief pitcher for the Seattle Mariners who hit Trout with a pitch, causing him to exit the game.

Oswald Peraza

A player for the Los Angeles Angels who pinch-ran for Trout after he was hit by the pitch.

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What they’re saying

“'If you can't control it up there, you shouldn't do it. So it is what it is.'”

— Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels Outfielder

What’s next

The Angels will monitor Trout's injury and provide an update on his status before their next game. The Mariners will also likely review their pitching strategy and execution, especially when facing star hitters like Trout.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges around pitcher safety and the risks of high-velocity, high-location pitches, especially against vulnerable star hitters. Trout's frustration underscores the need for better pitch control and execution to protect players from potential injuries that could derail their seasons.