Trout sends special message to Class of 2020

ANAHEIM -- With many Class of 2020 graduates unable to attend the usual graduation ceremonies due to the coronavirus, Angels superstar Mike Trout taped a message for this year’s high school and college graduates for what they’ve accomplished.

"I just wanted to let you know it's been a really tough year for you guys but I want to recognize you for all your amazing accomplishments," Trout said. "The ability to overcome these current challenges will prepare you for anything the future holds. I'm thinking about you guys. Keep strong, stay strong and like baseball, work hard to strive to achieve your goals. Congratulations, graduates."

Trout, a 2009 graduate of Millville High School in New Jersey, continues to give back to his former high school, as he honors the team captain of the baseball team with his No. 1 jersey in a ceremony every year. He also provides the players with new cleats and meets with the players and his former coach Roy Hallenbeck before each season.

Trout also shared his respect for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week in early May, as his wife, Jessica, is a teacher, and his father, Jeff, became a history teacher after his Minor League baseball career.

"I hold a special respect for those who help children," Trout tweeted on May 6. "The dedication and support teachers give to their students takes a big heart. I understand this because I married a teacher! Thanks for all you do!"

Trout has also made several donations to help others during the coronavirus pandemic. He surprised frontline workers at Inspira Medical Center in Mullica Hill, N.J. on April 16 with free pizza, soda and cookies, which was just the first of several donations he's made to local Inspira Medical facilities near where he grew up.

He's made it his mission to make donations to food pantries, hospitals and businesses across his native Cumberland County. Donations included $1,000 to Care and Share Lunches, a program that provides daily lunchtime meals for the homeless, and donating 300 gallons of milk to 300 families at the Millville Child Family Center. He also surprised workers at a local ShopRite in Holly City, N.J., with pizzas as well, while his mother, Debbie, also handed out gift cards to customers.