Los Angeles Angels’ standout player Mike Trout is set to undergo surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, which will keep the three-time AL MVP out of action for an unspecified period.
General manager Perry Minasian expressed optimism that Trout could make a return during the current season, as he announced the injury on Tuesday.
Mike Trout, who currently holds a batting average of .220 with 10 home runs, 14 RBIs, and six stolen bases – leading the majors in homers, will be facing a significant setback for the fourth consecutive season due to a major injury.
As a result, the Angels put Trout on the 10-day injured list and brought in veteran outfielder Kevin Pillar with a one-year, $740,000 contract.
The decision for surgery came after Mike Trout underwent an MRI following the Angels’ 6-5 victory over Philadelphia on Monday. The outfielder revealed his gradual realization of the injury’s severity, noting that the pain intensified post-game and hindered his ability to sleep.
Mike Trout’s absence adds to the Angels’ woes, who are struggling with an 11-18 start to the season, compounded by Anthony Rendon’s earlier sidelining due to a torn hamstring.
Both Mike Trout and Rendon, the Angels’ highest-paid players, have been plagued by injuries over the past four seasons, with Trout particularly affected since 2021.
Despite Mike Trout’s confidence in a swift recovery from the meniscus repair, the Angels moved quickly to bolster their outfield by signing Pillar, following the designation of Aaron Hicks for assignment.
Pillar, a Southern California native, joins the Angels after stints with eight other major league teams in the past six seasons. Additionally, left-handed reliever Amir Garrett was added to the roster, while right-hander Davis Daniel was sent back to Triple-A Salt Lake.
