Los Angeles Angels fans were met with a disheartening update as star outfielder Mike Trout exited the first game of his minor-league rehab assignment prematurely due to knee soreness. Trout, who was originally scheduled to play five innings, managed to stay on the field for just two before being sidelined once more. In his lone at-bat, Trout struck out, signaling an unceremonious start to what fans hoped would be a swift return.
Scheduled to continue his rehab with Triple-A Salt Lake, Trout's plans have now changed as he has returned to Southern California for further evaluation. The injury in question is a torn meniscus in his left knee, which has kept him out of Major League Baseball since April 29. The surgery to repair this injury has led to Trout missing nearly three months of the 2023 season, an absence that's been keenly felt by the Angels.
A Slow, Painful Recovery
Reflecting on his recovery process, Trout stated, "Just got to get the strength back." 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."
The 32-year-old, who will turn 33 on August 7, has spoken openly about the challenges he faces, noting, "I can't run." He added, "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."
A Pivotal Player's Absence
Before his injury, Trout was a vital contributor to the Angels' lineup. Across 29 games, he maintained a .220/.325/.541 slash line, hitting 10 home runs and stealing six bases. His on-field performance also brought an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference, showcasing his invaluable impact on the team.
The absence of Trout has undeniably taken its toll on the Angels, who have struggled in his absence. With a record of 33-39 without him, the team's hopes for a strong postseason push have dimmed substantially. As of Wednesday, the Angels' overall record stood at 44-57, placing them eight games back in the American League West standings.
The Road Ahead
Trout's return to the Angels is uncertain and looms over the team's performance and morale. The longer he remains sidelined, the more difficult it becomes for the Angels to mount a resurgence in what has already been a challenging season.
For now, all eyes are on Trout as he undergoes further evaluations and continues to battle the lingering effects of his injury. While his effort to regain strength and avoid setbacks is commendable, it's clear that his journey back to full health is still a work in progress.
Angels fans, players, and the organization itself can only hope that Trout's tenacity and determination will lead him back to the field sooner rather than later. Until then, the team must find a way to soldier on without their cornerstone player, hoping the eventual return of their star outfielder will inject new life and momentum into their season.