Mike Trout's Rehab Assignment Cut Short Due to Knee Soreness
Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout's highly anticipated return to the field hit another snag on his first day of a minor-league rehab assignment. Trout exited the game early due to knee soreness, leaving fans and the Angels organization concerned about his recovery timeline.
Initially scheduled to play five innings, Trout managed only two before being sidelined. In his sole at-bat during the game, he struck out, an outcome overshadowed by his premature exit. This setback means Trout will not appear in the lineup for Triple-A Salt Lake as initially planned. Instead, he has returned to Southern California for further evaluation of his knee.
Trout has been out of MLB action since April 29, following surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. This injury has already cost him nearly three months of the 2023 season—a significant absence for both him and the Angels. Before his injury, Trout posted a .220/.325/.541 slash line with 10 home runs and six stolen bases in just 29 games. Even in that limited time, he managed to contribute an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference.
The Angels have struggled in Trout’s absence, going 33-39 without their star outfielder. As of Wednesday, the team holds a 44-57 record, placing them eight games back in the American League West standings. The hope was that Trout's return could provide a much-needed boost as the team fights to turn its season around.
Speaking about his condition, Trout remarked, "Just got to get the strength back." He added, "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." However, he also noted, "I can't run," indicating that his knee still has significant limitations.
Trout also emphasized the need to manage his recovery carefully. "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 said. His comments underscore the delicate balancing act between accelerating his return to the field and ensuring long-term health and performance.
Trout will turn 33 on August 7. The urgency for his return is palpable, not just for the current season but also considering the long-term prospects for an athlete now in his early 30s. The Angels' front office and medical team will undoubtedly navigate this situation with extreme caution, balancing short-term needs against the long-term health and career of one of baseball's brightest stars.
As fans hold their breath, the Angels must prepare for the possibility that Trout's road to recovery could be longer and more complicated than initially anticipated. The team has already shown resilience in adapting to his absence, but having Trout back in the lineup would undoubtedly be a game-changer. For now, all eyes are on his evaluations and the steps forward in his rehabilitation process.
The story of Mike Trout's 2023 season continues to be written, filled with both setbacks and hopes for a triumphant return. As always, his determination and approach to overcoming challenges will serve as a testament to his enduring spirit and talent.