Mike Trout's Rehabilitation Setback Complicates Angels' Season
Los Angeles Angels star outfielder Mike Trout has experienced a setback in his recovery from a meniscus surgery, adding another twist to a challenging season for both the player and the team.
Trout, who has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, began a minor-league rehab assignment recently. However, the assignment was cut short as knee soreness forced him to exit his first game after just two innings. Originally scheduled to play for five innings, Trout only managed a single at-bat, which resulted in a strikeout. Despite an initial MRI coming back clean, the road to recovery has proven to be anything but straightforward.
“Just got to get the strength back,” Trout said, reflecting both his persistence and the physical challenges he faces. “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.”
The 32-year-old outfielder has now been sidelined for nearly three months, a period during which the Angels have seen mixed results. The team's record during Trout's absence stands at 35-42, contributing to an overall season record of 46-60. This places them nine games back in the American League West. For a team already wrestling with inconsistency, Trout's recovery becomes even more critical.
Before his injury, Trout was a significant contributor, hitting .220/.325/.541 with 10 home runs and six stolen bases in just 29 games. His contributions were valued at approximately 0.9 Wins Above Replacement, a testament to his impact on the field. His absence has undoubtedly left a void in the lineup, one the Angels have struggled to fill.
The path to recovery has not been easy for Trout, filled with frustrations and uncertainties. “I can't run. Certain things get me kind of achy and sore the next day,” he added, expressing the physical toll the injury and subsequent surgery have taken. “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 Angels have certainly felt the absence of their star outfielder, and while they hope for an improvement in standings, the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Trout's return casts a shadow over the remainder of their season. The persistent soreness in Trout's knee continues to be a concern, making a clear timeline for his return elusive.
As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Trout's recovery. His ability to return to the lineup could be a pivotal factor in the Angels' efforts to salvage their season and make a push in the highly competitive American League West.