Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is gearing up for a significant return to the field as he begins a rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake City on Tuesday night. The 32-year-old standout has not played since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that has kept fans and the team eagerly awaiting his comeback.
Trout underwent surgery on May 3, sidelining him for an extended period. However, recent developments have been promising. Over the weekend, Trout took batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona, indicating that he is making strides toward a return to full fitness.
A Much-Anticipated Return
Trout's return is eagerly anticipated not just by the fans but by the entire organization. "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," remarked Ron Washington, highlighting the collective hope surrounding Trout's comeback.
As a three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star, Trout's presence on the field is invaluable. His career, however, has been marred by a spate of injuries in recent years. Last season, Trout endured a broken hamate bone in his left wrist, restricting him to just 83 games. The previous year saw him miss time due to a back injury, and in 2021, a calf strain reduced his appearances to just 36 games.
Rehabilitation and Immediate Goals
Prior to his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs this season. His rehab assignment with Salt Lake City will initially see him taking on the role of designated hitter before he resumes his duties in center field. The goal during this stint is for Trout to play seven innings on defense, a crucial step in assessing his readiness for a full return.
"Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," Washington commented, emphasizing the step-by-step approach to Trout's rehabilitation. "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 added, underscoring the careful monitoring of Trout's condition.
Past Associations with Salt Lake Bees
This is not Trout's first stint with the Salt Lake Bees. In 2012, he played 20 games with the Bees, making a significant impact with a .403 batting average, one home run, and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. This past experience adds a layer of familiarity and optimism to Trout's current rehab assignment.
The road to recovery has been a challenging one for Trout, but the Angels' star player is showing resilience and determination. His ability to return to peak performance is crucial for the team as they navigate the remainder of the season. With each step forward, there is a collective sense of optimism that Trout will once again take his place in center field and continue to contribute at the high level he has always maintained throughout his illustrious career.