Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is on the verge of making a much-anticipated return to the field. The star player is set to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake City on Tuesday night, marking a significant step in his journey back from a torn meniscus in his left knee.
The 32-year-old has been sidelined since April 29 due to the injury, which required surgery on May 3. Not one to stay idle, Trout took batting practice over the weekend at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona, showing promising signs of his recovery.
A Career Marked by Excellence and Adversity
Trout's career has been decorated with accolades, including three MVP awards and ten All-Star selections. However, the past few years have been challenging, with a series of injuries keeping him off the field far more than the Angels or their fans would like. Last season, Trout played only 83 games after fracturing the hamate bone in his left wrist. The previous year saw him dealing with a back injury, and in 2021, a calf strain restricted his appearances to just 36 games.
This season, prior to his knee injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs, a testament to his enduring skill despite the setbacks. His return could be pivotal for the Angels as they look to boost their performance heading into the crucial stretch of the season.
Starting with the Salt Lake Bees
Trout's rehab assignment with the Salt Lake Bees is not his first stint with the team. In 2012, he played 20 games with the Bees, where he posted an impressive .403 batting average, along with one home run and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. This experience will no doubt be valuable as he works his way back to full fitness.
Initially, Trout will take on the role of designated hitter before resuming his usual position in center field. The goal during his rehab is to have him play seven innings on defense. This gradual increase in activity is designed to ensure he can handle the demands of playing center field regularly without risking further injury.
Coaching Staff's Optimism
The Angels' coaching staff is cautiously optimistic about Trout's progress. "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," said Ron Washington, reflecting the hope and anticipation surrounding Trout's return. He added, "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 has been in constant communication with Trout throughout his recovery. "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," Washington noted.
Looking Ahead
As Trout inches closer to returning, the anticipation among Angels fans is palpable. A healthy Trout could be the spark the team needs to make a late-season push. His presence not only boosts the lineup but also provides invaluable leadership and inspiration to his teammates.
The coming days with the Salt Lake Bees will be crucial in determining the exact timeline for Trout's return to the major league lineup. Both the Angels and Trout understand the importance of getting this right, balancing the immediate desire to see Trout back on the field with the long-term goal of ensuring his continued health and performance.
With his storied history and undeniable talent, Mike Trout's return is not just a roster update; it's a moment that could shape the remainder of the Angels' season. All eyes will be on Salt Lake City as one of baseball's brightest stars takes his next steps towards full recovery and a return to the greatness that has defined his career.