Los Angeles Angels superstar outfielder Mike Trout encountered a setback in his road to recovery as he exited early from his minor-league rehab assignment due to knee soreness. Initially expected to play five innings, Trout was pulled from the game after just two. The hallmark of his appearance was a sole at-bat that resulted in a strikeout.
Trout's knee issues have been a prolonged concern for the Angels and their devoted fans. Following the game, it was announced that Trout would not join Triple-A Salt Lake's lineup as originally planned, choosing to return to Southern California for further evaluation. Trout has been MIA from Major League Baseball action since April 29, a result of surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. This injury has already sidelined the star outfielder for nearly three months of the 2023 season.
"I just got to get the strength back," Trout mentioned candidly, while reflecting on his road to recovery. "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."
Despite this setback, Trout remains hopeful and committed to his rehabilitation, albeit with caution. "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 added.
For the Angels, the absence of their star player has been palpable. Before his unfortunate injury, Trout was an essential asset to the team, boasting a .220/.325/.541 slash line with 10 home runs and six stolen bases in 29 games. According to Baseball Reference, Trout contributed an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) during this brief period, emphasizing his pivotal role in the lineup.
Sans Trout, the Angels have struggled to maintain form, going 33-39 in his absence. They entered Wednesday with a concerning 44-57 record, trailing by eight games in the American League West standings. While the team aims to hold its ground, the loss of Trout's presence continues to hinder their competitive edge.
As Trout approaches his 33rd birthday on August 7, the dilemma surrounding his health gains urgency. The outfielder's dedication to regaining form doesn’t waver, yet the road ahead remains meticulously cautious. "I can't run," Trout admitted—a stark reminder of the stringent journey ahead in reclaiming full fitness.
Efforts to refine and adjust his rehabilitation process have been ongoing, tailored to mitigate pain and expedite a safe return. "Just trying to find exercises that don't make it ache the next day or irritate it," Trout explained. "Finally figured something out that's been working. Just trying to get that strength back."
For now, the Angels and their fans must wait with bated breath. Trout's promise and potential on the diamond remain undiminished, tempered only by the time and care required to secure his full recovery.