Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is on the brink of making a highly anticipated return to the field as he commences a rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake City. Trout, who hasn’t played since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, is set to make his comeback on Tuesday night, an encouraging sign for both the player and his team.
The 32-year-old, a three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star, had surgery on May 3 to address his meniscus injury. Over the past weekend, Trout took batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona, marking an important step in his recovery process. His return couldn’t come sooner for the Angels, who have missed his presence on the field and his contributions at the plate.
A String of Injuries
Trout's career in recent years has been disrupted by a series of injuries. Last season, he sustained a broken hamate bone in his left wrist, which limited him to just 83 games. The year before, Trout missed games due to a back issue. In 2021, a calf strain sidelined him after just 36 appearances. Despite these setbacks, Trout remains one of the most formidable players in Major League Baseball when healthy.
Before his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs this season. Although not his usual stellar numbers, they still underscore his capability to impact the game significantly.
Rehab Assignment Details
Trout will begin his rehab stint as a designated hitter, gradually transitioning back to his role in center field. The primary objective during this period is for him to play seven innings on defense. This strategic approach is designed to ease him back into full participation without overstraining his recovering knee.
This rehab assignment also marks a return to familiar territory for Trout. Back in 2012, he played 20 games with the Salt Lake Bees, during which he had a remarkable .403 batting average with one home run and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. His stint with the Bees at that time provided a glimpse of the superstar career that was to follow.
Voices of Optimism
Angels' interim manager Ron Washington has expressed optimism and excitement about Trout's rehab progress. "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," Washington stated, underscoring the collective anticipation for Trout’s return.
Washington added, "I don't know exactly when, but let's see how it goes in Salt Lake City and then make a call from there." This measured approach indicates the team’s commitment to ensuring Trout’s full recovery before he resumes his central role with the Angels.
Additionally, Washington highlighted Trout's own enthusiasm about his recovery, saying, "I've been talking with him every day. He's excited about every progression that he makes, and he can't wait to get back, and we certainly can't wait to have him."
As Trout gears up for his return, his rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake City will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The Angels are hopeful that this marks the beginning of the end of a frustrating spate of injuries for their star player.
With Trout back in the lineup, the Angels look forward to reinvigorating their season with the dynamic performance that only a player of his caliber can provide. All eyes will be on Salt Lake City on Tuesday night, a pivotal step in what the team hopes will be a successful and sustained comeback for one of baseball’s brightest stars.