Pirates Reportedly Eyeing Blockbuster Trade for Angels' Mike Trout

Proposed deal would bring three-time MVP to Pittsburgh, seen as major upgrade over Oneil Cruz

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:49pm

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The struggling Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly exploring a blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Angels that would bring superstar outfielder Mike Trout to the Steel City. Trout, a three-time MVP, is seen as a significant upgrade over the underperforming Oneil Cruz and could help the Pirates become a contender in the National League.

Why it matters

The Pirates have had a disappointing start to the 2026 season, with Cruz's defensive issues and offensive struggles contributing to their woes. Acquiring Trout, one of the best players in baseball, would provide a major boost to the team's lineup and defense, potentially transforming them into a playoff contender.

The details

According to reports, the Pirates have offered the Angels a package that would send Trout to Pittsburgh in exchange for several players and prospects. Trout is currently in the eighth year of a 12-year, $426.5 million contract, which would be a significant financial commitment for the Pirates but could be worth it to land a generational talent.

  • The Pirates have struggled to a 2-2 start in the 2026 season.
  • Oneil Cruz has underperformed, batting .167 with one hit in two games.
  • Trout has gotten off to a hot start, slashing .556/.733/1.222/1.956 with two home runs and three RBIs in three games.

The players

Mike Trout

A three-time MVP and one of the best players in baseball, Trout is currently in the eighth year of a 12-year, $426.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels.

Oneil Cruz

The Pirates' starting center fielder, who has struggled defensively and offensively to start the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“The Pittsburgh Pirates reportedly offered Kyle Schwarber four years and $125 million this offseason. He wound up back in Philly as expected, but it's clear the Bucs have a bit of cash to spend these days. Pittsburgh eventually added the likes of Brandon Lowe and Ryan O'Hearn, but after back-to-back losses to the Mets to start the year, it certainly can't hurt to add another bat. The Pirates can certainly use a defensive upgrade over Oneil Cruz in center field, too. Trout's remaining contract comes out to roughly five years and $155.6 million. That's a bit more than the Schwarber contract, and it comes with significantly more downside risk tied to age and injury history. And yet, if he can improve Pittsburgh's porous defense at a critical position and give the Pirates that long-lost superstar bat in the middle of the order, they start to feel like a genuine threat in the National League.”

— Christopher Kline, FanSided Writer

What’s next

The Pirates and Angels will need to finalize the details of the potential trade, which would likely involve the Pirates sending a significant package of players and prospects to Los Angeles in exchange for Trout.

The takeaway

Acquiring Mike Trout would be a bold and potentially franchise-altering move for the Pirates, who are looking to turn their season around after a disappointing start. While the financial commitment would be substantial, Trout's talent and impact could make him worth the investment and transform the Pirates into a true contender in the National League.