Mike Trout Prepares for Return with Rehab Assignment
Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is eagerly gearing up to make his significant return to the diamond, beginning a rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake City on Tuesday night. This next step is crucial for the 32-year-old superstar, who has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee.
Trout, a three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star, underwent surgery for his knee injury on May 3. Over the past weekend, he took another stride in his recovery by participating in batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona. This progression has been a positive sign for both the player and the team.
"I've been talking with him every day," commented Ron Washington, providing a glimpse into Trout's mindset as he prepares for his return. "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."
Despite his sterling career, the past few seasons have been marred by a series of injuries for Trout. Last season, a broken hamate bone in his left wrist restricted him to just 83 games. The year prior, a back injury limited his playing time, and in 2021, a calf strain confined him to just 36 appearances. This current rehab aims to get Trout back on the field so he can reclaim his status as one of the game’s elite players.
For Trout, the road to recovery is not unfamiliar territory. This rehab assignment begins with him serving as a designated hitter before gradually resuming his duties in center field. The goal set by the Angels' medical and coaching staff is for Trout to eventually play seven innings on defense during his stint with the Salt Lake Bees.
It's worth noting that this isn't Trout’s first engagement with the Bees. In 2012, he played 20 games with the team, boasting an impressive .403 batting average, one home run, and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. Such a stellar performance a decade ago sets a high expectation for his imminent return to the minor league team.
Before his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs this season. Despite the setbacks, the optimism surrounding his return is palpable within the organization. “Hopefully that’s another progression he’s making, and we can have him back,” said Washington, reflecting the shared sentiment within the clubhouse.
The next steps for Trout remain somewhat fluid, and the timeline for his complete return to the Angels' lineup will depend on how he fares in Salt Lake City. Washington added, "I don't know exactly when, but let's see how it goes in Salt Lake City and then make a call from there."
This measured approach underscores the team's commitment to ensuring Trout is fully prepared for the rigors of Major League play. His return could provide a much-needed boost for the Angels as they navigate the latter part of the season. Trout’s presence—both on and off the field—is invaluable, offering not only elite performance but also veteran leadership to the clubhouse.
As Trout undertakes this latest rehab assignment, fans, teammates, and the entire organization will be keenly watching each progression. The anticipation of his return serves as a reminder of his extraordinary talent and the impact he has had on the sport. For now, the focus remains on Salt Lake City, where Trout begins another chapter in his storied career.