"We’re not like the other people" - When Mike Trout's agent hit back at critics after $144,500,000 contract extension with Angels

Mike Trout has been extremely valuable to the Los Angeles Angels. Coming up, they were the team that drafted him 25th overall selection in the 2009 MLB Draft, giving him his chance.

In 2014, the Halos were looking to lock Trout down for the future. They did not even want to think about him becoming a free agent and allowing other teams to sweet-talk their star.

So, they offered him a six-year, $144.5-million contract extension ahead of the 2014 season. Trout and his agent, Craig Landis liked the terms and agreed to the deal. However, many around the sport thought Trout was doing an injustice to himself, but Landis fired back, via Los Angeles Times' Bill Shaikin.

"We're not like other people. We feel that Mike is going to do well. We feel that is a nice length. We feel that this keeps our options open down the road, and it gives Mike what we think for him is still lifetime security," said Landis.

People around the league felt that Trout left a ton of money on the table by not exercising his right to be a free agent. But, Trout's client felt this deal would still allow him to get another big contract in the future.

"I understand most people are looking to get as long a deal as possible because they're in the latter part of their career. I agree with that strategy, if you have a player of that age. What Mike was trying to accomplish was some financial security, but also keeping the door open for whatever may happen down the road" said Landis.

Mike Trout later secured his long-term deal with the Angels

Los Angeles Angels - Mike Trout (Photo via IMAGN)

Over the years during Mike Trout's extension, the Angels did not want to think about losing their organization's most important player. So, again they decided to come up with an extension before the star reached free agency.

The two sides agreed to a 12-year, $426.5 million contract, securing the sluggers' future in L.A. until after the 2030 season. The contract also included a no-trade clause which Trout can use to veto a trade he does not like.

Many were disappointed to see Trout stay with the Halos. He has only been to the postseason once during his career while Shohei Ohtani left in free agency, winning a World Series this past season.