Three-time American League MVP Mike Trout was hoping to catch at least one ball in his opening game from midfield to right field, but ultimately he didn't get any goalkeeping in his Cactus League spring debut when the Angels beat the Giants 7-4.

Trout could only be satisfied with his first return to action since re-injuring his left knee in the only Triple-A Salt Lake game on July 23. He initially tore his meniscus on April 29 and tried to return mid-season, but eventually had to undergo a second knee operation.

In this year's spring training, Trout participated in training camp with the Angels in good health. He played as a right fielder against the Giants, playing three innings, 1 dozen non-hits, 1 free run and 1 strikeout.

"It feels good," Trout said, "but it's from a different angle and you need to get used to it." Practice something in the percussion exercises, try to make yourself more comfortable. Hopefully I could catch a flying ball, although I thought I might catch a rolling ball, but that's okay. ”

It was Trout's first right field player since 2012 and his first appearance outside of midfield since 2013. Trout has played 1,344 games in midfield and 124 in left field, compared to just 17 in right field.

"It's very different," Trout said, "and for the right-hand hitter, the ball that hits the gap comes towards me, and the ball on the sideline. We've been practicing these. Once I get used to these, I'll be fine. ”

The three-time American League MVP and 11-time All-Star said the handling of the ball between practice breaks is very important at the moment as he is used to being in control of everything in the midfield. But he's learning to let new fielders Mickey Moniak and Jo Adell dominate to avoid potential collisions. He has been working hard with veteran coaches Bo Porter and Eric Young Jr. to adapt to the new position.

"When we were doing the communication exercises, I felt like I was still playing in the outfielders because I like to play aggressively," Trout said, "but I knew that the outfielders would catch the ball. When communicating with Mitch and Joe, I had to shout out loud. I still have the instinct of a midfielder and I want to catch everything. So if I hear them, I'll let them catch the ball. Communication is very important, that's for sure. ”

As for his performance in the strike zone, Trout was largely satisfied with his first strike and his second strikeout.

"I think I swung a couple of good sticks," Trout said, "just a little bit slower." Just face the actual pitchers and try to find your rhythm. ”

For the Angels, it was a comforting sight to see Trout return to the pitch as he was moved to right field to keep him fit after four consecutive years of injury trouble. But they are confident in this decision.

"We think with his talent and ability, he can not only adapt to the right field, but also grow in this position," said general manager Perry Minasian, "The right fielder has a shorter wall and with his athleticism, I think we'll see him make some great home runs at home." He can do anything. As I said before, if we asked Mike Trout to guard the guerrillas, he would do the same. ”

Minacian explained that they believe that the right fielder has a smaller range of guarding and can reduce the wear and tear of Trout. Trout will also occasionally take on the assigned strike, and take a break when needed.

"It's very important for us to lighten the burden on him in the outfield, which has a lot of responsibility," said Minacian, "and you have to worry not only about yourself, but also about the outfielders in both corners. You need to keep moving, and you have to fill in on the left and right sides. In the right field, those responsibilities are reduced and based on our situation we think it's in the best interests of the team. ”