Mike Trout, the Los Angeles Angels’ star slugger, has been sidelined since April 29 due to a torn meniscus in his left knee. Despite initial expectations of a six to eight-week recovery timeframe, Trout’s return has been slower than anticipated. The three-time AL MVP is currently undergoing jogging, treadmill workouts, and playing catch, but he has yet to start running or taking swings. Trout expressed his eagerness to return to the field and mentioned that hitting might not be an issue, but running remains a critical hurdle to overcome.
Trout’s recent injury adds to a string of setbacks he has faced in the past few seasons. In 2021, he played only 36 games due to a strained calf, followed by a five-week absence in 2022 due to a back injury. The previous season, Trout broke a bone in his hand during a game in San Diego, ultimately missing a significant number of games. Since the start of the 2021 season, Trout has played in only 266 games, missing a staggering 302. The Angels have struggled with injuries to key players. Despite this, the team has managed to win five straight games in June, showing resilience and depth in their lineup.
One bright spot for the Angels during Trout’s absence has been the emergence of Luis Rengifo. Rengifo currently leads the American League with a .315 batting average, contributing significantly to the team’s success in June. The Angels have shown improvement at home as well, boasting a 10-4 record at The Big A in June after a slow start to the season. Manager Ron Washington commended the progress made by the younger players on the team, emphasizing their dedication to improvement.
Trout and Anthony Rendon, the Angels’ highest-paid players, have rarely been in the lineup together in recent years. Since 2021, Trout and Rendon have played in only 118 games out of 568 (20.8%) due to various injuries. Rendon, who suffered a hamstring injury in late April, has missed 61 games and has played in only 167 since the start of the 2021 season. The absence of these two star players has put pressure on the rest of the team to step up and perform.
Mike Trout’s road to recovery has been filled with challenges and setbacks. While his return date remains uncertain, the Angels have shown resilience and depth in their lineup, thanks to emerging talents like Luis Rengifo. The absence of Trout and Rendon has allowed younger players to showcase their skills and contribute to the team’s success. As the Angels push through injuries and aim for a playoff spot, the return of Trout could be the spark needed to propel them to greater heights.
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