Mike Trout Nears Return with Rehab Assignment in Triple-A
Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is stepping closer to his much-anticipated return to Major League Baseball, beginning a rehab assignment with Triple-A affiliate Salt Lake City. The 32-year-old superstar has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that required surgery on May 3.
Trout, a three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star, took batting practice over the weekend at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona. This significant step forward hints at optimism for both the player and the team. "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," said Ron Washington, underscoring the sense of anticipation surrounding Trout's return.
Trout’s career in recent seasons has been marred by various injuries that have curtailed his time on the field. Last season, he suffered a broken hamate bone in his left wrist, which restricted him to just 83 games. The previous year, Trout missed action because of a back injury. In 2021, a calf strain limited him to a mere 36 games. Despite these setbacks, Trout remains a crucial figure for the Angels, demonstrating his resilience and determination to get back to his prime form.
Before his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs this season. His rehab assignment with the Salt Lake Bees will initially see him as a designated hitter before he resumes his role in center field. The primary goal is for Trout to play seven innings on defense during his stint with the Bees.
Ron Washington emphasized the careful monitoring of Trout's progress throughout his rehab. "I don't know exactly when, but let's see how it goes in Salt Lake City and then make a call from there," he stated. Washington’s words highlight the cautious optimism and methodical approach being taken to ensure Trout's full recovery.
This isn't the first time Trout has donned a Bees uniform. In 2012, he played 20 games with the team, boasting a .403 batting average with one home run and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. His prior success with the Bees adds a layer of familiarity and confidence as he embarks on this latest rehab assignment.
Washington has been in frequent communication with Trout during his rehab process. "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 shared. This close contact highlights the strong support system surrounding Trout and the collective eagerness for his return.
As Trout takes these pivotal steps towards rejoining his teammates, fans and analysts alike watch with bated breath, hopeful that he can return to peak performance and lead the Angels back to prominence. With his remarkable track record and unwavering commitment, Mike Trout’s return could well be the catalyst that the Los Angeles Angels need as they push through the latter part of the season.