Mike Trout's Metrics (pitchers, MVP, pitcher, player)

[Grandstander]

Last season the MVP argument between Miguel Cabrera and Mike Trout featured the Trout supporters relying upon the 2.1 Defensive WAR (Baseball Ref) that he compiled and with which the Troutists insisted that this accomplishment pushed Trout past the Triple Crown winner in value.

So far this season Trout's defensive WAR has been minus 1.3. By the metrics, not only is Trout no longer saving runs at a prodigious rate, he has fallen below the level of the typical defensive replacement player. From being vastly superior, he has gone to below average.

Does this mean that Trout has somehow lost his defensive skills? Does it mean that such skills can slump, just as hitters do at the plate? Does it mean that something is off kilter with the system of defensive measurements?

[Johnbiggs]

I think the whole "advanced metrics" thing has gotten a little out of hand in baseball.

[SyraBrian]

LA Angel pitchers must throw a lot of pitches that get hit to center field.

[Ridgerunner]

Originally Posted by Grandstander

Does this mean that Trout has somehow lost his defensive skills? Does it mean that such skills can slump, just as hitters do at the plate? Does it mean that something is off kilter with the system of defensive measurements?

No, yes and yes.

[Grandstander]

The ten days since I started this thread have shown no improvement, Trout has actually slipped further, now at minus 1.4 WAR with his glove.