Mike Trout Eyes Return with Triple-A Rehab Assignment
Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is on the cusp of making a triumphant return to the field, embarking on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake City on Tuesday night. This marks a pivotal moment for Trout, who has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee.
Undergoing surgery on May 3, the 32-year-old standout has been diligently working towards recovery. Over the weekend, Trout was seen taking batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona, signaling significant progress in his rehabilitation process.
Trout’s career, adorned with accolades such as three MVP titles and ten All-Star selections, has been hampered in recent years by a series of injuries. Last season, a broken hamate bone in his left wrist restricted him to just 83 games. The preceding year saw him grapple with a back injury, while a calf strain in 2021 confined him to a mere 36 appearances.
Despite these setbacks, Trout remains a formidable presence on the field. Before his latest injury, he was batting .220 with 10 home runs this season. As he commences his rehab assignment, Trout will initially take on the role of a designated hitter before gradually resuming his duties in center field. The ultimate objective of this stint is for him to manage seven innings on defense, a crucial step towards full recovery.
Speaking on Trout’s progress, Angels' bench coach Ron Washington expressed cautious optimism. "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," Washington stated. "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 further emphasized the team's anticipation for Trout’s return, sharing, "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."
Trout’s familiarity with the Salt Lake Bees is not new. Back in 2012, he played 20 games with the team, showcasing a stellar .403 batting average with one home run and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. The Bees will undoubtedly be a crucial stepping stone in his journey back to the Angels.
As Trout navigates through this rehab assignment, the baseball world watches keenly, hoping for the return of one of the game’s brightest stars. His comeback not only holds significance for the Angels but also for fans and the sport at large, eager to witness Trout's unparalleled talent back in action.