Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout's return to the diamond has hit another snag, as the star player exited the first game of his minor-league rehab assignment due to knee soreness. Initially expected to play five innings, Trout managed just two before being sidelined again.
An Abrupt End to Rehab Assignment
In his brief appearance, Trout struck out in his only at-bat before experiencing discomfort in his surgically repaired knee. This development has prompted the Angels to pull him from the lineup for Triple-A Salt Lake, where he was scheduled to continue his rehab. Instead, Trout has returned to Southern California for further evaluation.
A Season Derailed
Trout had been out of MLB action since April 29 following surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. Initially, there was hope that he could make a swift return to bolster the Angels' lineup. However, knee soreness has persisted, delaying his comeback and costing him nearly three months of the 2023 season.
Impact on the Angels
Before his injury, Trout posted a respectable .220/.325/.541 slash line with 10 home runs and six stolen bases over the course of 29 games. Despite these solid numbers, the Angels have felt his absence acutely, compiling a 33-39 record without him. The team entered Wednesday with a lackluster 44-57 record, trailing by eight games in the American League West standings.
Trout Speaks On His Condition
Trout himself has been candid about his ongoing struggles. "Just got to get the strength back," he remarked, indicating the primary challenge in his recovery. He elaborated, "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. Finally figured something out that's been working. Just trying to get that strength back."
Despite his determination to return, the physical limitations remain evident. "I can't run," he admitted, a staggering revelation for a player known for his speed and agility. The hesitance is understandable, as any premature return could lead to further setbacks. "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," Trout added.
Looking Ahead
As Trout turns 33 on August 7, the Angels and their fans hope that his recovery trajectory will improve. His return would unquestionably provide a significant boost to the team, both offensively and defensively. For now, all eyes are on his next steps and the medical evaluations that will determine his readiness to rejoin the roster.
The Angels find themselves at a crucial juncture in their season. With playoff hopes dwindling, the potential return of their marquee player could serve as a catalyst for a late-season surge. However, the primary focus remains on Trout’s health and ensuring that when he does return, it's for the long haul.
Trout's situation underscores the precarious nature of sports careers, where even the most diligent preparation and care can't entirely shield athletes from injuries and their lingering effects.
For now, the Angels and the baseball world wait with bated breath, hoping for positive news from Southern California.