Mike Trout Exits Rehab Assignment Early Due to Knee Soreness
Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout faced another setback in his quest to return to Major League Baseball action. The star player was forced to leave the first game of his minor-league rehab assignment prematurely due to knee soreness. Initially scheduled to play five innings, Trout managed just two before heading back to the sidelines.
In his lone at-bat during the game, Trout struck out, a stark reminder of the challenging road to full recovery. He was expected to appear in the lineup for Triple-A Salt Lake as part of his rehabilitation process but will no longer take the field there. Instead, Trout has returned to Southern California for further evaluation of his knee.
Trout has been out of MLB action since April 29 following surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. His injury has already cost him nearly three months of the 2023 season, a significant blow to both the player and the team. The Angels have struggled in his absence, going 33-39 without their star outfielder and holding a 44-57 record as of Wednesday. The team now sits eight games back in the American League West standings.
Before being sidelined, Trout posted a .220/.325/.541 slash line with 10 home runs and six stolen bases in 29 games. He contributed an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference. Despite these respectable stats, Trout’s absence has undoubtedly impacted the Angels' performance this season.
Reflecting on his ongoing recovery, Trout shared his frustrations and hopes. "Just got to get the strength back," he said. "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."
However, challenges remain. "I can't run," Trout admitted, highlighting a critical aspect of his game that is currently compromised. "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."
As Trout approaches his 33rd birthday on August 7, the urgency for his successful and complete recovery intensifies. The Angels, despite their current standing, will look to have him back on the roster as soon as it is safe and feasible. His contributions both offensively and defensively are vital components to their overall success and playoff aspirations.
For now, Trout’s fans and teammates remain hopeful. His recovery progress and the decisions made by the Angels' medical team in the coming weeks will play a crucial role in determining when he can rejoin his team on the field. His determination and caution reflect a player committed not only to returning but also to ensuring he remains a formidable force when he does.
As the Angels navigate the latter part of the season, every game counts. The eventual return of Mike Trout could be the spark they need to turn things around. Until then, the star outfielder continues to focus on his path to recovery, aiming to get back to full strength without further setbacks.