Mike Trout’s Rehab Assignment Cut Short Due to Knee Soreness

Mike Trout’s Rehab Assignment Cut Short Due to Knee Soreness

Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout’s attempted comeback from a meniscus tear has hit a setback. Trout left his first game with the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees on Tuesday due to knee soreness, according to the team. He’s considered day-to-day, but further details of his condition weren’t clear.

Trout hasn’t played since injuring his knee on April 29 and undergoing surgery to repair the torn meniscus in his left knee. Tuesday’s game was his first since the injury, and he lasted only two innings before exiting the game.

Despite the setback, Trout was in good spirits pregame, taking time to sign autographs for fans who showed up to watch the three-time AL MVP play a minor-league game. He told team reporter Sammy Miller before the game that his knee “feels great.”

Trout’s rehab assignment was expected to be a crucial step in his recovery, with a successful stint potentially allowing him to return to the Angels’ lineup as soon as this week. However, with his knee soreness, it’s unclear when Trout will be able to return to the field.

The 32-year-old struggled at the plate prior to his injury, posting a.220/.325/.541 slash line in 29 games with the Angels. He did find his power when he made good contact, hitting 10 home runs and driving in 14 runs in 109 at-bats.

The 44-57 Angels are eight games behind first place in the AL West and 11.5 games back of wild-card contention. With no motivation to rush Trout back if there’s any risk of further injury, the team may opt to take a cautious approach with his recovery.