Three-time AL MVP Mike Trout will undergo surgery on a torn meniscus, causing a significant setback for the Los Angeles Angels. Trout had been powering through pain before the injury sidelined him.
Mike Trout's already tumultuous season has taken an even more unfortunate turn as the three-time AL MVP will undergo surgery on a torn meniscus. While the injury is not season-ending, it will keep the Angels' center fielder sidelined for an extended period.
Trout, who has not played in 140-plus games since 2016, has been battling a nagging pain that gradually intensified after the Angels' victory over Philadelphia on Monday. The injury was confirmed after an MRI, sending shockwaves through the Angels camp.
Despite the setback, Trout had been on a power surge to start the year, blasting 10 home runs in the Angels' first 29 games. The injury, however, has cast a shadow over his impressive start.
Trout's injury comes at a time when the Angels are already struggling mightily. The team is 11-18, and another key player, Anthony Rendon, tore a hamstring last week. Trout himself has been plagued by injuries in recent years, missing significant time in both 2021 and 2022.
The injury has raised concerns about the potential decline of Trout's once-stellar career. The outfielder had a disappointing 2023 campaign, putting up career lows in nearly every category.
Trout expressed his frustration and disappointment after the diagnosis. "It's crazy, because I look back, and I don't even know when I did it," he said.
The 31-year-old Trout is in the fourth year of a 12-year, $426 million deal with the Angels and is not set to hit free agency until 2031. The Angels are hoping that Trout can return to form after recovering from the surgery and help lead the team to success.
However, with Trout's injury history and the Angels' struggles, the outlook for the team remains uncertain. The loss of Trout for an extended period is a major blow to the Angels' hopes of competing in 2023.
While Trout's recovery timeline is yet to be determined, it is likely that he will miss a significant portion of the season. The Angels will need to find a way to replace his production and leadership on the field.
The injury to Trout is a worrying development for both the Angels and baseball fans alike. Trout is one of the most talented and beloved players in the game, and his absence will be felt by the Angels and the league as a whole.
