As the sun rose on Thursday, March 27, 2025, the Los Angeles Angels kicked off their 15th Major League Baseball (MLB) season with a three-game series against the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field. The Angels, looking to rebound from a dismal 2024 season that saw them record a franchise-worst 99 losses, were eager to start fresh with a mix of new faces and a familiar one in a different position.
Mike Trout, the face of the franchise and an 11-time All-Star, began his season with a significant change. After spending his entire career as the Angels' starting center fielder since 2012, Trout has been moved to right field. This decision, made in collaboration with the team, aims to reduce the physical strain on his body, as he has been limited to just 266 games over the last four seasons due to injuries.
Before Thursday, Trout had only 17 career appearances in right field compared to a staggering 1,344 in center. Nevertheless, the shift marks a new chapter for the star player, who is now tied with Garret Anderson for the most Opening Day starts in Angels history, with 13. "Mike Trout is set to tie Garret Anderson's #Angels franchise record with his 13th career #OpeningDay start today," the team announced. This milestone is a testament to Trout's enduring presence and impact on the franchise, where he has long been regarded as the greatest player in Angels history.
With a career Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 86.0, Trout leads the franchise by a wide margin, with Chuck Finley trailing at 51.8. Over his illustrious 14-year career, Trout has garnered three American League MVP awards and nine Silver Slugger honors. Entering the season with 378 career home runs, he is poised to reach the coveted 400 mark this year.
As the Angels took the field, they were not only focused on Trout's achievements but also on a significant roster transformation. The team could feature as many as ten newcomers on their 26-player roster, including left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, who was named the Opening Day starter. Kikuchi, who signed a three-year, $63 million contract with the Angels in November 2024, had a 9-10 record with a 4.05 ERA in 32 starts last season, playing for both the Toronto Blue Jays and the Houston Astros.
On the mound for the White Sox will be rookie right-hander Sean Burke, who was drafted by Chicago in the third round of the 2021 draft out of the University of Maryland. Burke made a promising debut last September, boasting a 2-0 record with a 1.42 ERA in four appearances, three of which were starts. This matchup marks a significant moment for Burke as he steps into the spotlight against a seasoned opponent.
Thursday's game is particularly noteworthy as it represents the earliest Opening Day in Angels history, surpassing the previous record set on March 28, 2024. Following their series in Chicago, the Angels will head to St. Louis for another three-game set before returning home to face the Cleveland Guardians in their home opener on April 4, 2025.
The Angels' roster overhaul includes several key newcomers aside from Kikuchi. Kenley Jansen, who holds the record for the most saves among active players, joins the bullpen, providing a significant boost to the team's late-game strategy. Right-hander Kyle Hendricks, an Orange County native and former standout for the Chicago Cubs, brings his experience and skill after posting the National League's lowest ERA in 2016.
Additionally, outfielder Jorge Soler, the 2021 World Series MVP, adds depth to the batting lineup, while 22-year-old reliever Ryan Johnson, a second-round draft choice from Dallas Baptist University, is set to make his professional debut. The infusion of talent is designed to revitalize a team that struggled to find its footing last season.
While the Angels aim for improvement, the White Sox are also looking to shake off the struggles of a 2024 season that saw them set a modern record for losses with 121. Despite their challenges, the White Sox managed to avoid the record for the lowest winning percentage by winning five of their final six games, including a three-game sweep against the Angels.
As the game unfolds, it will also mark the major league managing debut of White Sox manager Will Venable, who has spent seven seasons as a major league coach. His leadership will be tested as he navigates the challenges of the season ahead.
With the stakes high for both teams, fans can expect an exciting matchup as the Angels and White Sox face off. The game, set to begin at 1:10 p.m. CT, will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network West, allowing fans to catch all the action live. As the Angels look to turn the page on a difficult season, all eyes will be on Trout to see if he can lead his team back to contention while making history in the process.
As the season progresses, the Angels' ability to adapt and overcome challenges will be crucial. With a mix of veterans and new talent, the team is poised for a fresh start. Will Mike Trout's transition to right field pay off, and can the Angels turn their fortunes around? Only time will tell as the 2025 MLB season unfolds.
