Los Angeles Angels star outfielder Mike Trout has encountered a setback in his recovery from meniscus surgery, casting a shadow of uncertainty over his return this season. The 32-year-old, who will turn 33 next week, has not participated in an MLB game since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that necessitated surgical intervention and has sidelined him for nearly three months.
A Promising Start Hits a Roadblock
Trout’s journey back to the diamond appeared promising when he began a minor-league rehab assignment. However, hopes were dashed when the outfielder was forced to exit his first game due to knee soreness. Scheduled for five innings, Trout managed to play just two and struck out in his sole at-bat. An initial MRI provided some relief by coming back clean, yet the knee discomfort persisted.
“Just got to get the strength back,” Trout told the Associated Press back in June. He elaborated on his feelings about the recovery process, noting, "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.”
Struggles on the Field and Off
The Angels have felt Trout’s absence keenly. Their season record stands at 46-60, and they are nine games back in the American League West. While the Angels’ performance has been inconsistent, with a 35-42 record during Trout’s absence, his presence on the field had been impactful before his injury. In 29 games, Trout managed to hit .220/.325/.541, complemented by 10 home runs and six stolen bases, putting his contributions at an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement.
Yet, the road to recovery for Trout has been anything but straightforward. He has voiced his frustrations and concerns as he works his way back to full fitness. "I can't run," he admitted. "Certain things get me kind of achy and sore the next day. 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."
Uncertain Return
With the end of the season looming, it's still unclear whether Trout will make an appearance on the field again this year. His setback has led to questions about whether the Angels will have the opportunity to see their star player back in action before the season concludes. While the initial diagnosis seemed optimistic, the persistent soreness in his knee has cast doubt on a timeline for his return.
As Trout continues to focus on regaining full strength and mobility, both he and the Angels are navigating a difficult and uncertain path. The hope remains that effective rehabilitation will eventually see him shaking off the effects of this injury for good, allowing him to contribute to the team in the capacity that both he and fans expect.
In the meantime, the Angels are left to forge ahead, hoping to improve their standings despite the challenge of missing one of their key talents. The extent of Trout’s impact on the team and the game of baseball as a whole makes his absence all the more poignant, underscoring the importance of his eventual, safe return to the sport.