Mike Trout's Rehab Setback Re-ignites Concerns Over Long-term Recovery
Los Angeles Angels star outfielder Mike Trout, considered one of the best players in Major League Baseball history, faced another setback during his minor-league rehab assignment. Scheduled to play five innings for the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees, Trout was forced to exit after just two innings due to knee soreness. This development casts a shadow of uncertainty over his previously anticipated return to the major-league lineup.
Trout's comeback story took a hit when, in his only at-bat for Salt Lake, he struck out. While such an outcome is not alarming in isolation, it underscored discomfort in the aftermath of Trout's surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. The timing couldn't have been more frustrating, as Trout's knee issues have sidelined him since April 29, costing him nearly three months of the 2023 season.
“Just got to get the strength back," Trout stated, emphasizing the challenges of his rehabilitation. "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.”
However, despite these efforts, the reality of the situation became evident when Trout candidly admitted, "I can't run." This simple, yet poignant confession casts doubts on how soon he will be game-ready. The recurring soreness and resulting restrictions have become significant hurdles in his recovery journey. "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," Trout explained, detailing the intricacies of his rehab process.
Following the abrupt end of his rehab game, Trout returned to Southern California for further evaluation of his knee. This is a concerning development for Angels fans and the organization, given Trout's immense contributions on the field. Before the injury, the three-time MVP boasted a .220/.325/.541 slash line with 10 home runs and six stolen bases in just 29 games. His performance contributed an impressive 0.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), according to Baseball Reference.
The absence of Trout from the lineup has had a noticeable impact on the Angels. Since losing their star outfielder, the team has struggled, posting a 33-39 record without him. As of Wednesday, the Angels held a 44-57 record, trailing by eight games in the American League West standings. These figures starkly contrast the early season optimism that had surrounded the team.
As Trout approaches his 33rd birthday on August 7, the clock is ticking not only on his age but also on his season and the Angels' hopes of turning their fortunes around. His presence on the field is an irreplaceable asset, and his prolonged absence raises broader questions about the future trajectory of both his career and the team's competitive prospects.
The Angels, along with Trout and his medical team, now face critical decisions regarding his treatment and timeline for a return. It remains to be seen whether Trout's resilient spirit and persistent efforts can overcome this prolonged period of adversity to reclaim his standing as one of the sport's preeminent players. In the highly competitive environment of MLB, his journey back to full strength is not just a personal battle but also a pivotal element in the Angels' strategy moving forward.