Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout has hit another snag in his journey back to the Major Leagues. In a disheartening development, Trout exited the first game of his minor-league rehab assignment early due to knee soreness. This marks another setback for the three-time MVP, who has been sidelined since late April after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee.
Trout was originally slated to play five innings in the game but managed to stay on the field for only two before the knee issues forced him off. In his sole at-bat, Trout struck out, adding further frustration to the night. "I can't run," Trout shared candidly when discussing his ongoing challenges with recovery.
Following his early exit, it was announced that Trout would not appear in the lineup for Triple-A Salt Lake as initially planned. The superstar returned to Southern California for further evaluation of his knee, as the Angels organization scrambles to understand the full extent of his condition and the accompanying implications for their season.
Chasing Full Recovery
"Just got to get the strength back," Trout explained, highlighting the ongoing trials of his rehabilitation process. "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."
Given the premium placed on his physical condition, particularly his speed and agility, any setbacks are concerning. Trout’s struggles to regain form are evident in his comments on finding effective routines. "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."
The Impact on the Angels
Trout’s absence has been keenly felt by the Angels. The team has posted a 33-39 record without him, a stark reflection of the gap his absence has left in the lineup. With a current record of 44-57, the Angels find themselves eight games back in the American League West standings, a position that makes every game without their star player even more consequential.
Before his injury, Trout was a vital contributor to the Angels' lineup, recording a .220/.325/.541 slash line with 10 home runs and six stolen bases over 29 games. His contributions were quantified at an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference, underscoring his multifaceted value to the team both offensively and defensively.
A Looming Milestone
Adding another layer to Trout's turbulent season is his upcoming 33rd birthday on August 7. A player of his caliber missing nearly three months of the 2023 season due to injury at this stage of his career is particularly poignant, especially given his consistent history of high performance. Fans and analysts alike recognize the clock is ticking, and the Angels will certainly be eager to maximize Trout’s prime years.
As the Angels continue to assess Trout’s condition, the organization and its fans remain hopeful for his swift and full return. For now, the focus remains on careful, measured progress in his rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of not just a return, but a return that sees one of baseball’s greatest players at his true best.