Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is preparing for a pivotal return to the diamond as he embarks on a rehab assignment with the Triple-A Salt Lake City Bees on Tuesday night.
The 32-year-old has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that necessitated surgery on May 3. Over the past weekend, Trout took a major step forward in his recovery, taking batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona.
A three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star, Trout is eager to get back on the field after a series of injuries have hampered his recent seasons. Notably, he suffered a broken hamate bone in his left wrist last year, limiting him to just 83 games. In the previous year, a back injury cut his season short, and a calf strain in 2021 reduced his appearances to a mere 36 games. Despite these setbacks, Trout remains one of the most talented and determined players in the league.
Before his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs. To carefully manage his return, he will start his rehab assignment as a designated hitter before transitioning back to his role in center field. The objective during this stint is for Trout to play seven innings on defense, a gradual buildup aimed at ensuring he is fully prepared for major league action.
This isn't Trout's first experience with the Salt Lake Bees. Back in 2012, the phenom played 20 games with the Bees, boasting an impressive .403 batting average with one home run and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats. His performance then showcased the immense talent that would later shine in the majors.
Angels third base coach Ron Washington, who has been closely monitoring Trout's progress, shared his optimism about the outfielder's recovery. "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back," Washington stated. He further emphasized the team’s cautious approach, "I don't know exactly when, but let's see how it goes in Salt Lake City and then make a call from there."
Washington also highlighted Trout's enthusiasm and determination to return. "I've been talking with him every day. He's excited about every progression that he makes, and he can't wait to get back, and we certainly can't wait to have him."
Trout's return will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to the Angels, who have felt his absence on both offense and defense. As one of the most electrifying players in baseball, his comeback is highly anticipated by fans and teammates alike. The rehab assignment marks a crucial phase in his journey back to the majors, and all eyes will be watching to see how he performs and progresses in the coming days.