Mike Trout's Rehab Hit with Another Setback Due to Knee Soreness
Mike Trout's road to recovery after knee surgery has encountered another obstacle. The Los Angeles Angels star outfielder was forced to exit his minor-league rehab assignment early due to knee soreness.
Initially penciled in to play five innings in his first rehab appearance, Trout could only manage two before being sidelined. His lone at-bat resulted in a strikeout, which left fans and the organization holding their breath about his comeback.
Trout's rehab stint was set to continue with the Triple-A Salt Lake team, but those plans have now been shelved. Instead, the 32-year-old, who turns 33 on August 7, has returned to Southern California for further evaluation of his knee. This turn of events has cast a shadow over his anticipated return to the Major League Baseball (MLB) lineup.
Trout has been out of commission since April 29 following surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. The injury and subsequent surgery have already cost him nearly three months of the 2023 season. Prior to his injury, Trout was contributing significantly to the Angels' performance with a .220/.325/.541 slash line, 10 home runs, and six stolen bases in 29 games. His performance was valued at an estimated 0.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) according to Baseball Reference.
The absence of Trout has been felt deeply by the Angels, whose record stands at 44-57. They have gone 33-39 without him and found themselves eight games back in the American League West standings. The team, as well as its fans, have been hopeful for Trout’s return to provide a much-needed boost, but this latest setback underscores the uncertainty surrounding his comeback.
“Just got to get the strength back,” Trout explained. He has been attempting to ramp up his activities, seeking exercises that don't exacerbate his knee condition. “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,” he continued.
However, the reality of his condition is stark. "I can't run," Trout admitted candidly. This limitation severely affects his ability to return to full form. “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,” he shared.
The 2023 season, which began with promise for Trout, now hangs in the balance. The three-time MVP has been a cornerstone for the Angels, and his absence is a significant blow to their postseason aspirations. While a full recovery and return to form is the ultimate goal, it is clear that both Trout and the Angels' medical staff are approaching his rehab with an abundance of caution.
Trout's dedication to his recovery is undoubted, but this latest setback is a reminder of the complexities and unpredictability of sports injuries. His return will not only hinge on the rehabilitation process but also on ensuring that he doesn't rush back prematurely, risking further injury.
As the Angels continue their season without one of their key players, the hope remains that Trout can overcome this challenge and return to the diamond. For now, the team and its supporters can only wait and watch, hoping for positive news in the days and weeks ahead.
The road to recovery for an athlete like Mike Trout is never straightforward, but his resolve and determination provide a glimmer of hope for better days to come.