Los Angeles Angels star and Team USA captain Mike Trout has been impressed with the quality of the American roster for the World Baseball Classic.
A couple of days ago, he was praising Mookie Betts for his ability to play shortstop.
Today, he made some positive comments about Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson.
“Mike Trout on Tim Anderson: ‘He’s a star. There’s no other way to put it…I put his swing the other way with anybody,’” ESPN’s Jesse Rogers tweeted.
Mike Trout on Tim Anderson: “He’s a star. There’s no other way to put it…I put his swing the other way with anybody.”
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) March 14, 2023
Both stars are featuring for Team USA in the short, but meaningful tournament.
From 2016 to 2018, Anderson’s stats were mediocre and he failed to return even average offensive production in any year.
But he kept on improving as a hitter, and in 2019, batted .335 in 2019 to take the American League batting title.
He hasn’t hit anything lower than .300 ever since, and also contributes some sneaky power and speed.
His swing is geared to take advantage of the opposite field, a la Derek Jeter.
He was limited to just 79 games in 2022, because of injuries, but is now fully healthy and showing his talent.
Since he is also a fine defender, Anderson is a solid regular for the White Sox and a nice piece to have around for Team USA.
The Americans are 2-1 after trouncing Team Canada on Monday, 12-1.
They will rest on Tuesday and close out their group stage in Pool C against Colombia on Wednesday.
USA is one of the favorites to lift the trophy on March 21, together with Japan and the Dominican Republic.
NEXT: Tim Anderson Reacts To Team USA's Statement Win
