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 32-year-old standout has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that required surgery on May 3.
Over the past weekend, Trout took a significant step forward by participating in batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona. This marks a crucial phase in his recovery as the three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star aims to rejoin his team after being absent from the lineup for over three months.
A Struggle with Injuries
Trout's absence from the field has become a recurring theme in recent years. Last season, he was restricted to just 83 games after suffering a broken hamate bone in his left wrist. The previous year, a back injury limited his appearances, and in 2021, a calf strain curtailed his season to just 36 games. These setbacks have cast a shadow over an otherwise stellar career, with Trout battling to remain available for his team.
Before his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs. Although these numbers reflect a dip from his usual stellar performance, the larger focus remains on his capacity to regain full fitness and contribute meaningfully upon his return.
Ready for a New Stint with Salt Lake Bees
Trout's rehab assignment will initially see him take on the role of a designated hitter before transitioning back to his familiar position in center field. The goal during this stint is for him to gradually work up to playing seven innings on defense. This assignment is not Trout's first with the Salt Lake Bees; back in 2012, he played 20 games for the Triple-A team, posting an impressive .403 batting average with one home run and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats.
The Angels' manager, Ron Washington, has been closely monitoring Trout's progress and expressed optimism about his return. "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," Washington remarked. While no specific timetable has been set for Trout's return to the majors, Washington emphasized the importance of assessing his performance in Salt Lake City first. "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 also highlighted the anticipation surrounding Trout’s comeback. "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," he added.
Looking Forward
The Angels, currently battling to keep their playoff hopes alive, will undoubtedly benefit from Trout's return. His presence on the field and leadership in the clubhouse are invaluable assets that the team has sorely missed this season. Fans and teammates alike hope that this rehab assignment will pave the way for a successful and sustained return to the field. For Trout, the journey back to health and peak performance continues, with the eyes of the baseball world watching closely.