Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is gearing up for a significant return to the field as he begins a rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake City on Tuesday night. The star player has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, a setback that required surgery on May 3.
Trout, a three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star, has taken steps toward his return by participating in batting practice over the weekend at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona. However, the journey back to the majors has been challenging for the 32-year-old, whose recent seasons have been punctuated by injuries.
Trout's injury woes have been a persistent theme over the past few years. Last season, he endured a broken hamate bone in his left wrist, which limited him to just 83 games. The previous year, a back injury caused him to miss significant time. In 2021, a calf strain reduced his appearances to a mere 36 games. These repeated injuries have not only affected Trout's playing time but also dampened the Angels' hopes of making a substantial playoff run.
Before his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs. His presence in the lineup was sorely missed, and his return is highly anticipated by both the team and its fanbase. "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," said Angels coach Ron Washington. The excitement is palpable as Trout prepares to step back onto the field, even if initially in a limited capacity.
Trout's rehab assignment will see him take on the role of a designated hitter before returning to his familiar spot in center field. The primary goal during this stint is for him to play seven innings on defense, a crucial step in assessing his readiness for MLB action. "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," Washington added, highlighting the cautious optimism surrounding Trout's return.
This isn't Trout's first stint with the Salt Lake Bees. He played 20 games with the Bees in 2012, where he made a significant impact, boasting a .403 batting average with one home run and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. This previous success in Salt Lake City provides a sense of familiarity and confidence as Trout begins his latest rehab assignment.
Despite the setbacks, Trout's commitment to the game and determination to return to peak performance remain unwavering. "I don't know exactly when, but let's see how it goes in Salt Lake City and then make a call from there," Washington remarked, encapsulating the careful approach being taken to ensure Trout's full recovery.
As one of the most talented players in baseball, Trout's return could be pivotal for the Angels as they navigate the remainder of the season. Counting on his experience and skill, the team hopes that his presence will not only strengthen their lineup but also reignite their competitive spirit. For now, all eyes are on Salt Lake City, where Trout's performance will provide critical insights into his readiness to rejoin the major league and continue his illustrious career.