Mike Trout, the star player for the Angels, is facing a second surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee, marking another injury-plagued season for the three-time MVP.
On Thursday, Trout shared on social media that an MRI indicated a new meniscus tear. He had previously undergone surgery in May to fix the meniscus and was working hard towards a return, but his rehabilitation was halted on Tuesday.
“I was heartbroken to learn from the MRI results that another meniscus tear requires surgery, which means I cannot return this season,” Trout stated. “Competing is a vital part of my life. I share your frustration and heartbreak, fans. I regret any disappointment I may cause, but I promise to work hard to return stronger than ever.”
In 29 games this season, Trout has recorded a batting average of .220 along with 10 home runs and 14 RBIs for the Angels, who are currently fourth in the AL West with slim playoff hopes.
“It’s unfortunate to see this happen again, but he has the opportunity to focus entirely on recovery and return ready for the next season,” commented Angels manager Ron Washington.
A former AL MVP in 2014, 2016, and 2019, as well as an 11-time All-Star, the 32-year-old Trout has struggled with various injuries over the last four years. He hasn’t played more than 119 games in any of the last five seasons, featuring in only 36 games in 2021 and 82 last year.
“He is devastated,” said Angels general manager Perry Minasian to the media. “I felt the same way. I’m not usually emotional, but being there with him as he received the news was really hard. No one wants to play more, and no one cares more for this organization, its fans, or this team than he does.”
Trout is set to earn $37.1 million this year as part of a 12-year, $426.5 million contract, with that salary continuing over the next six seasons.
“He will come back next year, clinch the MVP, and hit 70 home runs,” Minasian asserted confidently. “Mark my words.”
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The Angels had a record of 10-18 at the start of the season with Trout, followed by a 10-17 record in May, their first full month without him. The team managed a 15-11 record in June, bolstered by outfielder Jo Adell’s seven home runs. Meanwhile, young talents like Zach Neto, Nolan Schanuel, and Logan O’Hoppe have been stepping up, even as the squad slipped to an 11-14 record in July.
“Having [Trout], [Anthony] Rendon, and [Brandon] Drury on the field would have significantly changed the dynamics,” Washington said. “However, it also gave us the chance to observe our young players, and I have been very pleased with their development.”
