Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is on the verge of making a highly anticipated return to the major league field. The 32-year-old three-time MVP has not played since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that necessitated surgery on May 3. However, Trout is now embarking on a rehab assignment with the Triple-A Salt Lake City Bees, with his first game scheduled for Tuesday night.
Over the weekend, Trout took batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona, signaling the next step in his recovery process. The Angels’ faithful, as well as the team’s management, are eagerly awaiting his return. Ron Washington, one of the team's coaches, expressed cautious optimism about Trout’s progress, stating, "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back."
Trout’s career, which includes ten All-Star selections and an impressive track record, has been beleaguered by a series of injuries in recent years. Last season, a broken hamate bone in his left wrist limited him to just 83 games. The previous year, a back injury benched him for significant portions of the season, and in 2021, a calf strain confined him to merely 36 games. Despite these setbacks, Trout remained a vital component of the Angels' lineup whenever he was on the field.
This season, prior to his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs. His presence in the lineup is sorely missed, and his return could potentially be a game-changer for the Angels as they progress through the season. The plan for Trout's rehab assignment includes starting as a designated hitter before gradually resuming his role as the center fielder. The ultimate goal is for him to play seven innings on defense before making his full return to the major leagues.
Speaking about Trout's comeback timeline, Washington commented, "I don't know exactly when, but let's see how it goes in Salt Lake City and then make a call from there." The team is taking a measured approach, ensuring that Trout is completely ready before he reclaims his spot in the lineup. This cautious optimism reflects the hope that Trout's latest return will mark the end of his injury woes and the start of a more consistent presence on the field.
Trout's experience with the Salt Lake Bees isn’t new territory for him. Recalling his 2012 stint with the Bees, Trout posted remarkable statistics, including a .403 batting average, one home run, and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats in 20 games. This impressive performance was a precursor to the outstanding career he has since built in the major leagues.
His journey back to full fitness has been closely monitored, with constant communication between the player and the team's staff. Washington highlighted Trout's positive mindset during this period, stating, "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." This upbeat attitude could play a significant role in Trout’s rehabilitation and eventual return to the field.
The baseball world is watching keenly as Trout takes these crucial steps towards recovery. The Angels, currently navigating the challenges of an injury-plagued roster, are undoubtedly hopeful that Trout's return will inject new energy into their season. As he prepares for his rehab assignment, all eyes will be on Salt Lake City, where one of baseball's brightest stars is set to make his comeback.