Mike Trout's Rehab Setback: Knee Soreness Halts Recovery
Los Angeles Angels superstar outfielder Mike Trout continues to grapple with his recovery process, as knee soreness forced him to exit his first minor-league rehab assignment prematurely. Initially scheduled to play five innings, Trout managed to stay on the field for just two before being sidelined due to discomfort in his knee.
In what was supposed to be a promising step toward his long-anticipated return, Trout’s sole at-bat of the game resulted in a strikeout. Fans and the Angels' front office alike were hoping to see some reassuring signs of progress, but the evening ended with a quick regression. Consequently, Trout will not be appearing in the lineup for Triple-A Salt Lake as initially planned. Instead, he has returned to Southern California for further evaluation.
Trout’s troubles began on April 29, when he underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. Since then, his rehabilitation has been a series of ups and downs, sidelining him for nearly three months of the 2023 MLB season. As he nears his 33rd birthday on August 7, the urgency to reclaim his spot on the diamond grows stronger, yet the path to recovery remains fraught with challenges.
“Just got to get the strength back,” Trout remarked candidly. “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.”
Despite his best efforts, Trout acknowledged the lingering issues that complicate his return. “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.”
Before his injury, Trout was delivering a solid performance. In 29 games, he posted a .220/.325/.541 slash line, along with 10 home runs and six stolen bases. According to Baseball Reference, Trout contributed an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) in that span. However, his absence has made a significant impact on the Angels, who have struggled in his absence, going 33-39 without their star outfielder.
As of Wednesday, the Angels hold a 44-57 record, placing them eight games back in the American League West standings. The team’s aspirations for a playoff berth have dimmed without Trout's influence on the field, and his prolonged recovery only adds to the uncertainty surrounding their season.
Trout's current predicament underscores the critical role he plays in the Angels' lineup and their overall success. His outstanding athleticism and batting prowess have long been the backbone of the team's strategy. Missing nearly half of the season not only affects his contribution but also places additional pressure on his teammates to make up for his absence.
For now, Trout’s focus remains on achieving a complete and sustainable recovery, ensuring that whenever he makes his return, it will be a lasting one. As he continues to work through this challenging phase, the baseball world watches closely, hoping for good news that heralds his return to form—both for the fans who adore him and the Angels who desperately need him.