Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout is on the verge of returning to the major leagues as he prepares to begin a rehab assignment with the Triple-A Salt Lake City Bees. The 32-year-old, who has not taken the field since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee, underwent surgery on May 3. His recovery has been gradual but promising, with batting practice at the Angels' spring training facility in Tempe, Arizona, marking a significant step in his rehabilitation.
Trout's return is eagerly anticipated by the Angels and fans alike. The three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star has seen his career plagued by injuries in recent years, a series of unfortunate events that have kept him off the field more than he or his team would prefer. Last season saw him sidelined by a broken hamate bone in his left wrist, limiting him to just 83 games. The year before, a back injury impeded his playing time. In 2021, a calf strain restricted him to merely 36 games. Despite these challenges, Trout's skill and dedication to the game remain undeniable.
Prior to his latest injury, Trout was batting .220 with 10 home runs this season. The Angels' outfielder will begin his rehab assignment as a designated hitter, gradually working his way back to his familiar center field position. The goal, according to team sources, is for Trout to play seven innings on defense during his stint with the Bees.
This upcoming assignment is not Trout's first engagement with the Salt Lake City Bees. Back in 2012, Trout displayed his prodigious talent with a .403 batting average, one home run, and 13 RBIs over 77 at-bats in 20 games. His return to Triple-A play will certainly draw attention as fans and analysts alike monitor his progress.
Angels’ infield coach Ron Washington has been closely involved with Trout during his recovery. "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," Washington said, reflecting the anticipation shared throughout the organization.
Trout’s presence is a game-changer for the Angels, not just for his performance on the field but also for the morale boost that comes along with having a player of his caliber back in the lineup. Washington highlighted this sentiment, saying, "Hopefully that's another progression he's making, and we can have him back." While the exact timeline for Trout's return to the majors remains uncertain, the team remains optimistic. "I don't know exactly when, but let's see how it goes in Salt Lake City and then make a call from there," added Washington.
For Trout, the rehab assignment represents yet another chapter in his storied career, a testament to his resilience and determination to overcome adversity. His track record suggests that once he completes his recovery, he'll once again be a formidable force on the diamond.
As he gears up for his return, the baseball world watches with bated breath, hopeful that this latest comeback will mark the beginning of a healthier, more consistent period for one of the game's standout talents. Whether Trout can stay injury-free remains to be seen, but his commitment to returning stronger echoes his enduring influence and the unwavering support he enjoys from his teammates, coaches, and fans.