During the MLB season, players have limited downtime. They must seize any chance they have to escape to the golf course. For the Los Angeles Angels, August 3 provided such an opportunity. The team was on the East Coast, and players had access to Mike Trout’s private club, Trout National.
The Angels were struggling with a 43-69 record, and management had embraced a selling strategy at the trade deadline. What was intended as a relaxing day on the greens quickly became chaotic.
Trout National, located in Vineland, New Jersey, is a private club designed by Tiger Woods. It boasts a $100 million budget and exclusivity, allowing only select golfers to play there. Trout welcomed a dozen teammates, ensuring they anticipated a unique experience.
However, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the excitement was short-lived for four players. Ryan Zeferjahn and Brent Suter, both pitchers, along with outfielder Jo Adell, were traded mid-round. Zeferjahn learned of his trade to the Chicago Cubs during a rain delay. Suter also got the news but was more concerned with finishing his round, reportedly asking, “Can I finish the round? Can I golf?”
Reliever Kirby Yates wasn’t traded during play but found out he’d been sent to the Pittsburgh Pirates shortly after leaving the course.
While receiving trade news on a golf course isn’t ideal, players continued to navigate these transitions amid their few days off.
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