Los Angeles Angels star outfielder Mike Trout's anticipated return to the lineup has hit another snag, as knee soreness forced him out of his minor-league rehab assignment earlier than planned. Initially scheduled to play five innings, Trout was able to complete just two before being sidelined again. His sole at-bat ended in a strikeout.
Trout, who had been rehabbing with the Triple-A Salt Lake team, will not appear in their lineup as initially planned. Instead, he has returned to Southern California for further evaluation of his knee. This setback comes as a significant disappointment for fans and the team alike, as Trout's presence has been sorely missed since he underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee back in April. The intervention has cost him nearly three months of the 2023 MLB season.
A Season Interrupted by Injury
Before his injury, Trout had been a formidable force in the Angels' lineup, posting a .220/.325/.541 slash line with 10 home runs and six stolen bases over 29 games. His contributions were instrumental, adding an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference. Despite his efforts, the Angels have struggled significantly in his absence, recording a 33-39 record without him. This has left the team with a subpar 44-57 record overall and eight games behind in the American League West standings as of Wednesday.
“Just got to get the strength back,” Trout commented on his condition. “I can’t run,” he added, emphasizing the limitations imposed by his injury. Trout's sentiments reflect the caution and patience required in his recovery journey, as he aims to avoid aggravating his knee further.
The Road to Recovery
Trout has been dealing with the challenges of rehabilitating a complex and persistent injury. “Kind of felt like this last week has been a little turning point where I can start ramping it up a little bit, see how it feels. It's just trying to find exercises that don't make it ache the next day or irritate it,” Trout explained. “Finally figured something out that's been working. Just trying to get that strength back.”
The 32-year-old’s comments indicate he is focused on strengthening his knee without rushing the process and risking another setback. “Certain things get me kind of achy and sore the next day. Trying to limit that, because I don't want to get here and then have a setback and have this (up-and-down) thing. Just trying to progress as fast as I can the smart way,” he shared.
Uncertainty Ahead
As Trout continues his rehabilitation, the Angels are left grappling with the uncertainty surrounding their star player's return. Given his pivotal role in the team, his absence has been felt keenly both on the field and in the clubhouse. As Trout works diligently to regain his strength and return to his high-performance standards, fans and teammates alike remain hopeful for a swift and successful recovery.
With Trout's 33rd birthday approaching on August 7, the timeline of his return remains unclear. However, what remains indisputable is his determination and commitment to getting back to his best form, crucial not only for his own career but for the Angels' aspirations this season. His progress will undoubtedly be closely monitored, with the hopes of seeing Mike Trout back where he belongs – on the field, leading his team once again.