Los Angeles Angels at Minnesota Twins

Philadelphia sports fans are notorious for being incredibly passionate but tough on opposing players. But they always make an exception for one of their own in Angels superstar Mike Trout, who received huge ovations from the crowds at Citizens Bank Park when he played there in 2014, ’22 and ’25. And now Trout, who grew up 40 miles away in Millville, N.J., will have a homecoming on a national stage with the All-Star Game set to be held in Philadelphia on Tuesday night. Trout was elected as a starter for the 11th time, and this will mark his 12th selection, but it’s the first time he’s played in a Midsummer Classic since 2019. Trout, who just returned from the injured list on Wednesday after missing 17 games with a strained right hamstring, said on Friday that he’s looking forward to being able to spend the All-Star festivities with his family, including his wife, Jessica, and their sons, Beckham and Jordy. “The fans have been awesome,” Trout said prior to the Angels' 4-3 win in their series opener against the Twins on Friday at Target Field. “I know how Eagles fans are when an opposing player comes into town. So to hear that ovation, it means a lot. The fans of Philly sports, they appreciate people that play the game hard and play the game the right way, and that's how I’ve been since I was a kid. I know they see that, and I don't take it for granted playing this game.” While Trout is excited for his Philly homecoming, he also knows he’ll be pressed with plenty of questions during media day on Monday about the upcoming Trade Deadline. He’s well aware that local and national reporters will be asking him if he wants to be traded, especially to Philadelphia. The Angels haven’t made the postseason since 2014 and entered Friday’s series opener 20 games under .500. “Oh, I know I'm going to hear that a thousand times,” Trout said. “The thing is, I have a no-trade clause. So, like, it can happen whenever. Ultimately, it comes down to what me and my family want. So I just think it's so hilarious when guys keep asking me.” Trout was quick to clarify that he wants to remain with the Angels, the organization he’s played for since 2011. He signed a 12-year deal worth $426.5 million that runs through 2030. “Yeah, for sure,” Trout said if he wants to remain with the Angels. “For sure.” He said he plans to talk with interim general manager John Mozeliak after this weekend’s Draft and after the All-Star break about his status. But for now, he’s simply looking forward to spe