Los Angeles Angels star outfielder Mike Trout's recovery from meniscus surgery has hit another roadblock. The 32-year-old has not graced an MLB game since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, a setback that necessitated surgical intervention. Nearly three months have passed with Trout sidelined, and the recent attempts to return have been marred with complications.
Setback During Rehab Assignment
The optimism surrounding Trout's comeback was short-lived when he began a minor-league rehab assignment only to exit his first game with knee soreness. Scheduled to play five innings, the three-time MVP managed just two before having to bow out, striking out in his lone at-bat. While an initial MRI returned clean, the persistent soreness in Trout's knee has cast a shadow of doubt over his recovery timeline.
Reflecting on his current condition, Trout shared, “Just got to get the strength back. 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.”
Impact on the Angels
During Trout's absence, the Angels have experienced a rollercoaster of performance inconsistency, posting a 35-42 record. Currently, the Angels' season stands at 46-60, placing them nine games back in the American League West. Trout's absence has certainly been felt by the team, highlighting the considerable weight his presence carries on the field.
In the 29 games prior to his injury, Trout managed a batting line of .220/.325/.541, backing it up with ten home runs and six stolen bases. His contributions during this time were calculated at 0.9 Wins Above Replacement, demonstrating his undeniable impact even during a shorter-than-expected season.
The star outfielder's frustrations during his recovery have been palpable. “I can't run. Certain things get me kind of achy and sore the next day,” noted Trout. “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.”
The Road Ahead
The uncertainty surrounding Trout's return continues to loom large. The Angels, who have been striving to improve their standings despite his absence, are hopeful yet cautious. There is still no definitive timeline for when Trout might be back on the field, and with each passing day, the chances of a return this season become increasingly uncertain.
The Angels and their fans eagerly await the superstar's return, but it's evident that patience and cautious optimism must prevail. The team and Trout himself must tread carefully to avoid further setbacks, aiming for a full-strength return that ensures the outfielder's long-term wellbeing.
For now, the Angels—and the baseball world—will continue to monitor any progress in Trout's rehabilitation, with the hope that he can overcome this challenging period and return to the diamond stronger and more resilient than ever.