The Los Angeles Angels are preparing for the return of star player Mike Trout to their lineup after nearly a month sidelined with a left knee bone bruise. Trout, who has not played since April 30, is running and taking batting practice, signaling his comeback is imminent as the team continues its successful eight-game winning streak.
Trout’s absence has been noted since he left the game against the Miami Marlins on April 30 due to the injury. Despite a slow start to the season with a .179 batting average, Trout managed to hit nine home runs and drove in 18 runs before the injury. His return is highly anticipated as the Angels strive to maintain momentum.
According to Jeff Fletcher of SoCal News Group, the key issue now for the Angels is determining how to utilize Trout’s playing time.
“With Mike Trout’s return to the Angels lineup seemingly near, the next question will be whether he’s the right fielder or the DH,”
Fletcher explained.
“That’s a question that Ron Washington isn’t prepared to answer yet.”
Previously shifted from center field to right field to ease physical strain, Trout may now be moved to the designated hitter (DH) role to protect his health. Such decisions often involve resistance from elite players like Trout, who has expressed a strong desire to remain active on the field. Still, minimizing the risk of further injury will likely be a priority for the Angels’ coaching staff.
While Trout’s imminent return brings hope, the final determination about his position remains open as the Angels weigh the best way to balance his health with team needs. This decision will have significant implications for both Trout’s performance and the team’s strategy moving forward.