Recovery Setback for Angels' Mike Trout Post-Meniscus Surgery
Los Angeles Angels star outfielder, Mike Trout, has seen a setback in his journey back to the field following surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee.
The 32-year-old has not participated in an MLB game since April 29 when the injury occurred. The tear required surgical intervention, and Trout has been sidelined for nearly three months. In a bid to return to active play, Trout commenced a minor-league rehab assignment. However, knee soreness forced him to exit his first game early.
Scheduled to play for five innings, Trout managed only two and struck out in his sole at-bat. Although an initial MRI returned clean, suggesting no further damage, the persistent soreness in his knee is a cause for concern.
Reflecting on his rehabilitation process, Trout expressed his frustrations and challenges. "Just got to get the strength back," he stated. "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’ performance without Trout has shown inconsistency. Their current season record stands at 46-60, putting them nine games back in the American League West. Over the course of Trout’s absence, the Angels have posted a 35-42 record, a significant dip in performance.
Before his injury, Trout appeared in 29 games, hitting .220/.325/.541 with 10 home runs and six stolen bases, contributing an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement for his team. His presence on the field has been sorely missed, and the uncertainty about his return only deepens the Angels' struggles.
The outlook for the rest of the season remains unclear as Trout and the Angels grapple with the next steps in his rehabilitation. In discussing his journey, Trout admitted the physical limitations he's currently facing. "I can't run. 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."
As the Angels continue to strive for an improved standing in the league, they remain hopeful for Trout’s recovery. However, they understand the necessity of a cautious approach to prevent further setbacks.
Mike Trout's road to recovery remains a critical storyline for the Angels this season. The potential impact of his return could significantly alter their prospects, but the team and its fans must remain patient as one of baseball’s brightest stars works towards a return to full strength.