On Thursday, the Anaheim Angels announced that they had placed three-time MVP, Mike Trout, on paternity leave. Trout who was expected to leave the team for the birth of his first child in early August, so this is a bit earlier than expected. It was reported before the season started that Trout was mulling whether or not he should even play in the MLB’s restart because of his fear over his wife and unborn child’s safety with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trout is expecting a son and when asked about his excitement for the birth a day before the Angels home opener he said, “I just can’t wait to meet him,” Trout said. “We’re excited. Jessica has been really strong and brave. I don’t know how women do it.” The Angels obviously support Trout and will give him all the time he needs to spend with his newest family member, but they are probably secretly hoping that he comes back soon since, with the MLB’s reduced 60-games schedule, they have their best chance In years to make the playoffs.
It is unclear when he will be back, but he will have to pass a COOVID-19 test. If he does, he can return to the team uninterrupted since the MLB considers this an excused absence from the team.
