Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is on the cusp of a meaningful return to Major League Baseball as he begins a rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake City. Set to take place on Tuesday night, this marks a significant step in Trout's recovery from a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that has sidelined him since April 29.
The 32-year-old superstar underwent surgery on May 3, putting an end to his season prematurely. Trout, a three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star, has faced several unfortunate setbacks in recent years, hampering his time on the field. Last season, he dealt with a broken hamate bone in his left wrist, restricting him to just 83 games. Prior to that, a back injury and a calf strain in 2021 limited his appearances to a mere 36 games.
This season before the injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs, a performance below what fans have come to expect from the prolific hitter. Yet, despite the string of injuries, Trout remains a key player for the Angels, and there is palpable excitement surrounding his attempt to return stronger than ever.
Rehab and Recovery
Over the weekend, Trout participated in batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona, signaling positive progress in his rehabilitation. His rehab assignment with the Salt Lake Bees is another critical component of his journey back to center field. Initially, Trout will serve as a designated hitter, but the ultimate goal is for him to play seven innings on defense.
Manager Ron Washington has been closely monitoring Trout’s rehabilitation and expressed optimism. "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," Washington said. Trout's enthusiasm for returning to the field has been evident throughout his recovery 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 added.
Looking Back: Trout with the Salt Lake Bees
This isn't Trout's first stint with the Salt Lake Bees. In 2012, Trout played 20 games with the team, showcasing his extraordinary talent with a .403 batting average, one home run, and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. His historical success with the Bees adds an element of hope that this rehab assignment will be both beneficial and brief, propelling him back to the Major Leagues quickly.
Washington remains cautiously optimistic about the timeline. "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 remarked, emphasizing the need to gauge Trout’s readiness through his performances with the Bees.
The coming days will be crucial for Trout and the Angels as they assess his ability to rejoin the team and contribute effectively. Fans and team members alike are eagerly awaiting his return, hoping that Trout can add another chapter to his already illustrious career, free from the recent shadow of injuries.
As the baseball world watches, Mike Trout prepares to show once again why he is one of the game's most exceptional talents, resilient in the face of adversity and committed to excellence on the field.