Los Angeles Angels star outfielder Mike Trout is facing significant challenges in his return from meniscus surgery. The 32-year-old has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, a setback that required surgical intervention and has kept him out of the lineup for nearly three months.
Trout recently commenced a minor-league rehab assignment, but his comeback attempt hit another roadblock. He had to exit his first game early due to knee soreness, managing only two innings out of the scheduled five and striking out in his lone at-bat. An initial MRI scan came back clean, providing a glimmer of hope, but ongoing discomfort in his knee continues to cast uncertainty over his recovery timeline.
Reflecting on his rehab process, Trout shared his frustrations and the challenges he faces: “Just got to get the strength back,” he said. “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 Angels, currently holding a 46-60 record, find themselves nine games back in the American League West. During Trout’s absence, the team has struggled with inconsistency, posting a 35-42 record. Trout’s absence is keenly felt not only in the outfield but also in the batting line-up, where his early-season performance had shown significant contributions. Before his injury, Trout played 29 games, hitting .220/.325/.541 with 10 home runs and six stolen bases, translating to an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement.
Despite the clean MRI, Trout's recovery has been anything but straightforward, as he continues to experience soreness which hampers specific activities and his ability to run. “I can't run,” Trout 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.”
The Angels remain hopeful for a recovery that would see their star player back on the field before season's end, but current signs suggest that caution is guiding Trout’s rehabilitation journey. The persistent issues with his knee underscore the unpredictable nature of returning from a meniscus injury, raising doubts about his potential to significantly impact the remainder of the Angels' season. Should Trout be unable to make a successful return, the team will have to soldier on without one of the most dynamic players in baseball.
As the Angels strive to climb the standings, the void left by Trout grows ever more evident. His prior achievements this season, although cut short, highlighted his importance to the team. The struggle to find a groove in his absence speaks volumes about the critical role he plays, not just on paper but in the morale and performance of the squad.
The coming weeks will be crucial for both Trout and the Angels. Continued monitoring and adjustments to his rehab regime will likely dictate his chances of a return this season. In the meantime, the team must find ways to adapt and overcome the challenges presented by playing without their MVP-caliber outfielder.