In an unexpected turn of events for the Los Angeles Angels, superstar outfielder Mike Trout had to exit the first game of his minor-league rehab assignment due to knee soreness, raising new concerns about his return to the major league lineup. Trout, initially expected to play five innings, barely lasted two before being sidelined once again.
Knee Issues Persist
Trout's brief appearance did not yield much solace for his supporters, as he managed just one at-bat in which he struck out. The early exit has put a damper on plans for him to continue his rehab stint with Triple-A Salt Lake, forcing him to return to Southern California for further evaluation.
This recent setback is just another chapter in a saga that has plagued Trout since April 29, the date he last appeared in MLB action. It all began with surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee — a procedure that has already sidelined the three-time American League MVP for nearly three months of the 2023 season.
Rehabilitation Woes
The troubled outfielder offered some insights into his ongoing struggles, stating, "Just got to get the strength back." Although he expressed some hope over recent progress, the path to full recovery continues to be riddled with obstacles. "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," Trout shared.
Despite the incremental improvements, Trout is still dealing with significant limitations. "I can't run," he admitted. The journey to mending his knee has included avoiding exercises that cause next-day soreness. "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," he explained.
Impact on the Angels
Trout's injury has undoubtedly been a heavy blow to the Angels, who find themselves 33-39 without their mainstay in the lineup. His absence has been keenly felt, given his pre-injury performance. In 29 games, Trout posted a .220/.325/.541 slash line, along with 10 home runs and six stolen bases, contributing an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference.
As the team battles in his absence, the Angels entered Wednesday's game with a 44-57 record, leaving them eight games back in the highly competitive American League West standings. The performance gap without Trout has been glaring, further emphasizing his value to the team.
The Road Ahead
As Trout faces another round of evaluations and potentially reworked plans for his recovery, the Angels' management and fans alike are holding their breath. With his 33rd birthday approaching on August 7, the timeline for his return remains uncertain. Nevertheless, Trout's determination to recuperate without further setbacks is clear. His disciplined approach and the recent adjustments in his rehabilitation regime bring a glimmer of hope amidst a cloudy recovery journey.
Until then, the Angels must continue to tread water, waiting for the return of their star outfielder and the stability he brings to both their lineup and their playoff aspirations.